Tears for souvenirs

ALL OVER: Danny Anchor’s superb 107 won him the man of the match award, presented by league chairman Eddie Bayliss.

CRICKET: FOR moment it appeared as though Alex Griffiths, the Uppermill wicketkeeper, would not let go of Danny Anchor at the end his herculean effort for Moorside in the Tanner Cup final.

Bowled by Darren Shadford, the opener stood leaning against his bat in the realisation that his team’s chances of lifting the trophy were fading away.

Griffiths eventually released his grip and with one hand over his face, Anchor slowly walked back to the clubhouse. His innings of 107 from 124 balls, featuring 13 fours and two sixes was over.

Uppermill went on to win the replay by four runs, while Anchor picked up the man-of-the-match award from Saddleworth and District Cricket League chairman Eddie Bayliss.

“I got a bit emotional at the end, which was a bit embarrassing, but this club means a lot to me and my family,” said Anchor. “This is where I started, when I was 12 — they are a special bunch.

“It’s not my game, trying to hit the ball out of the ground, but I did as much as I could. It’s not every day that you score a century in a Tanner Cup final and end up on the losing side.”

Tons are rare in Tanner Cup finals: Anchor’s effort was only the third in 88 years.


THE Saddleworth and District Cricket League has received applications from two Manchester and District Association clubs to join in 2014.
Members of the league’s executive met Wythenshawe last night and will talk to South Manchester tonight.

A final decision will rest with a vote among member clubs. If both are given the green light, they will join fellow Manchester club Whalley Range.