FINALLY, after waiting nine months of Friday events, the sun shone down on everyone at the Rounders Finals at the Harlow Town CC.

Thirteen teams of eager athletes converged to take part in the school sport with arguably the most complex set of rules.

The children made huge progress throughout the day; the standard of bowling and fielding was so good that matches were concluded quicker than usual, allowing for teams who were eliminated to enjoy some free-time in the sunshine, playing ad hoc friendly matches. 

After the first round of matches, the four-semi-finalist played off for a place in the grand finale. Both semis’ were tight affairs, with Church Langley A edging past a spirited Roydon team, whilst Nazeing A pipped Abbotsweld by the narrowest of margins on the very last ball.  

The final between Church Langley A and Nazeing A was more about big-hitting, with Church Langley finding their form with the bat at exactly the right time to take the trophy. Abbotsweld pipped Roydon, again a very close match which was decided on the very last ball. 

SGO David Stacey, thanked all the participants and school staff for a really enjoyable day’s entertainment. Special thanks were given to Mrs. Chapman (Nazeing), Mr Hammond (Purford Green) and Mr. Kotun (Little Parndon) who helped Mrs. Pardoe and Mr. Stacey to officiate 26 matches. 

Congratulations to Church Langley, who will now represent Harlow at the County Finals in a couple of weeks time. 

Results: 

Group 1 

Roydon – 9 points 

Little Parndon 7 points 

Potter Street – 5 points 

Purford Green – 3 points 

Group 2 

Nazeing A – 9 points 

Hare Street – 6 points 

Nazeing B – 6 points 

Church Langley B – 3 points 

Group 3 

Church Langley A – 12 points 

Abbotsweld – 10 points 

Jerounds – 8 points 

Church Langley C – 7 points 

Katherines – 7 points