HARLOW’S First XI struck back on Saturday, after a poor run of form, with a maximum 25 point win away at league leaders Goresbrook. The win coincided with a welcome return to the club by Abi Farooq but it was Joe Riddell who claimed the headlines with a superb bowling display.

The signs hadn’t looked positive after another average batting display saw Harlow only muster 187 all out with James Forde (54*) again leading the way supported by Chris Whitworth (40) and Syed Hassan (31).

Amazing during the tea break the playing wicket was rolled (common in First XI matches) and the stumps replaced – only in error they were set up on the next strip along. It was 11 overs into the Goresbrook innings that the umpires noticed causing much head-scratching and a delay. Both captains decided to play on but possibly it played into Harlow’s hands as the home side struggled on the slightly less well prepared wicket.

Joe Riddell made full use of any benefit taking 6-37 in 11.3 overs with wickets for Whitworth (3-64) and the economical Alex Senior 1-11 (6 overs). Goresbrook could only accumulate 151 all out for a much needed Harlow win.