By Noel Bullock
New Farnley bounced back from their recent Priestley Cup final defeat as they lifted the Heavy Woollen Cup for a sixth time after a thrilling eight-run victory over Bradford Premier Cricket League rivals Woodlands at The Barry Jackson Ground.
In front of a bumper Bank Holiday crowd, New Farnley were asked to bat first and posted a competitive 220-7 from their 48 overs. Steve Bullen was the star of the innings, producing a superb final’s knock of 80 from 133 balls, including eight fours and two sixes.
Bullen received excellent support from Aidan Langley (30) before Ed Brown changed the tempo with an outstanding 53 from just 40 deliveries. Their 80-run partnership put New Farnley in a strong position and allowed the hosts to finish with a total they believed they could defend.
Woodlands’ reply was always competitive. Matty Weston led the way with 54, while Brad Schmulian added 46 and Henry Pearson 43 as the visitors moved to 189-5 and looked well placed to chase down the target.
But, just when Woodlands appeared to be gaining control, New Farnley found another gear. Abhay Negi and Adam Ahmed both struck three wickets apiece, while some outstanding fielding under pressure kept the visitors in check.
With Woodlands needing 16 in the latter stages, Pearson was brilliantly caught by Brown on the boundary off Fletcher Coutts proving to be the decisive moment. Woodlands eventually finished on 212-7, leaving New Farnley victorious by eight runs.
It was a magnificent team performance, and a particularly satisfying result after Woodlands had beaten New Farnley by the same margin in the Priestley Cup Final just a couple of weekends ago at Lightcliffe.
The Heavy Woollen Cup is back at The Barry Jackson Ground – and New Farnley are champions once again.
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