All Over - Now the Work Begins
The season came to an end in a disappointing fashion as, to nobody's surprise, Sandy Lane conceded the match at the last minute. Whilst expected (they had conceded their previous 4 matches) it was still a shame not to play on the final weekend.
So that's the end of a tumultuous 2017 season. After a pretty horrendous set of results, Riddlesden finished the season bottom of the table level on points with Sandy Lane but behind on run-wicket ratio, so will be relegated to division 4A next season. We have, given the situation at Sandy Lane, requested confirmation from the league as obviously things there mustn't be great - but for now we have to accept that we weren't good enough for the division. I've said it a few times over the last month, it's hard to claim otherwise when we've not been able to overtake a team that's not played a full third of their games!
What's next? Well, in the immediate future there's all the jobs that need doing at the end of each season. Given the lack of game on Saturday we've already made progress - the sight screen is down, the net screen is down, and the trampoline is stored away for winter. The batting nets need storing soon, then it's on to the maintenance of the square. Hopefully electricity will be run on to the scorehut in the coming weeks, and then we start a list of other jobs to do over winter. Plans are being considered to improve facilities further - a covered walkway round to the toilets, new storage in the changing rooms, improved lighting, fix the guttering, more painting, etc. Then there's the bonfire to arrange - the last few years the weather has been kind and we've had a spectacular event, so here's hoping this year is as good. And preferably I won't put any nails through my foot this time either. Maybe there'll be a Christmas event? Or a Halloween party? We'll also be arranging a meeting with all the players to get their input and thoughts for next year, and the AGM will occur at some point in the autumn. Before you know it, it will be spring and winter nets will be underway!
Now I was going to do a piece on statistics this week as I know everyone loves them. And there have been some impressive performances from several players this year despite our lowly position. But I decided to save that until next week - give them a blog of their own and at a point where the disappointment of the end of the season isn't quite as keen. So look out for that. Also, I'm looking to do a highlights blog - so what were your favourite bits from the season. I have a feeling I know what the on-field favourite will be, but let's have some off the field moments too. I'll accept the timeframe as being from the end of the 2016 season to last Saturday, so Greg can have his 'Steve putting his foot through the roof' moment...
Finally, thanks to everyone who contributed to this season, on and off the field, and let's look forward to the next chapter of the Riddlesden Cricket Club story.