The first attempt to play the final of the Thwaites LCB Cup was at Old Trafford on Sunday 19th September. Despite heavy rain in Southport, Blackpool, Liverpool and Bolton, a start was made on time. Sefton Park batted first and scored 132 for 9 in their 45 overs. Ormskirk's reply was delayed by the rain that had arrived, and eventually, after one over (1 for 0) the game had to be abandoned.

The second attempt was at Ormskirk C.C. on the following Saturday, when once again the forecast was for heavy showers - some prolonged. Ormskirk again won the toss and invited Sefton to bat on a wicket that had damp patches. Sefton approached their task in a much more positive manner and attacked everything that was over pitched. Richie Bann and David Heyes had scored 54 before Bann was lbw and Sefton were nicely placed until disaster struck at 87, Heyes being run out after a mix-up for 43. Worse was to follow as Jude Mahadanaarachchi was brilliantly caught by Jon Armstrong off Bailey from the next ball. Howie Baird (36) and Paul Horton (24) then set out to score as many as possible in the remaining overs. A final total of 164 for 5 was felt to be competitive in the conditions.

Ormskirk started uncertainly, losing Ken Burns and Armstrong quickly, and when Craig Wiseman departed with the score on 37 for 3 (a third victim for Howie Parker), much depended on captain David Snellgrove. He and David Whittaker consolidated the position and then realised quick runs were essential as the dark clouds came ever nearer. The match became a race to increase Ormskirk's scoring rate to the required level before the rain came. After the 22nd over, Ormskirk were still behind, but Sefton's delaying tactics backfired on them when the Umpire's saw out the full over, and Ormskirk were in front by the narrowest margin. The rain continued as the overs ticked away and eventually Ormskirk were winners as no further play was possible.

The presentation was made in a very crowded clubhouse, by Kevin Glover, marketing Executive of Daniel Thwaites Ltd., and John Brewer, Chairman of the Lancashire Cricket Board. David Snellgrove was adjudged Man of the Match for his 9 overs for 24 runs and 42 not out.

© 1999