Ross-on-Wye Under 15s ended their superb 2016 season with three fixtures in eight days – resulting in two comfortable victories and a narrow defeat in an exciting final match.

Ross had a point to prove against Canon Frome having suffered defeat earlier in the season. This time the Ross bowlers were firmly in control restricting Canon Frome to just 59 runs all out with not a single batsman reaching double figures; Ralph Verney, Adam Davies and Chloe Tingle taking two wickets apiece. Harry Friend batted well for his 35 to lead Ross to an easy win by six wickets.

Next up was the rescheduled fixture against Wormelow. Batting first Ross scored an impressive 114 – 4 with Charlie Cole leading from the front for 47 runs, ably supported by Marcus Bailey (22) and Tom Gwynne (23). Once again the Ross bowlers dominated and never allowed the opposition to threaten their score. The Wormelow innings petered out on 94. Result: Ross win by 20 runs.

Arguably the best performance of the season, outside of the cup matches, came in the final league match away to Colwall. Fielding a strong side Colwall piled on the runs and scored 154 in their allotted 20 overs. Facing an almost impossible task, Ross batted and battled superbly to post their highest score of the season at 145 - 9. Once again Friend was outstanding for his 50 (retired not out). Gwynne and Bailey also showed how much their batting has improved by providing excellent support. Result: Ross lose by 10 runs.

Ross finish the season as County Cup champions and runners up in the league. Undoubtedly this is their best season for many a year and is the result of fantastic teamwork on and off the pitch, well led by captain Charlie Cole. The small squad has trained hard and developed both individually and as a unit. The U13s who stepped up to fill the playing places should also be congratulated for their commitment.

Many of the players have experienced senior cricket for the first time. George Aubrey, Marcus Bailey, Charlie Cole, Adam Davies, Harry Friend, Tom Gwynne, Cameron Hill, Isla Kendall, Alex Springer have shown they are all capable of playing at the higher level. Charlie Cole took 5 wickets in a recent first XI match while Tom Gwynne scored 36 not out for the second XI.

Behind the scenes three people deserve a special thanks: Leslie Hill for leading the team providing teas and refreshments, Malcolm Hill for scoring every match (a thankless task at the best of times), and coach Clive Jones for his dedication to the cause.