Vale Hoppers football team got together for a cricket match on Sunday at Congleton Cricket Club.
The annual event is an early distraction from the beginning of the football season, with members of the current squad, taking on the “old” boys in a 20-over game.
The older Hoppers, under the management of John Gittins and captained by Lee Jackson, won the toss and elected to bat.
They struggled against the younger fire power, with Jack Farrall and Harry Gittins taking early wickets. Cricket novice John Ryan chipped in with a strike.
However, Grange (28), who was dropped on four by Moss and Jackson (14), led a solid recovery. Gregson bought some further stability, with Walker, Ward and Ben Accom Snr helping the team to a respectable total of 128.
Refreshments at tea centred around pints rather than a brew, as players swapped stories gleaned over 35 years of local football.
The current Hoppers started slowly, losing early wickets. The highlight was Harry Gittins, being bowled by his brother George, making a cameo appearance.
Hamand, Senior and Brown turned their arm over with various degrees of success.
However, after the early scares, Oakes and Ben Accom scored their allotted 30 before retiring. The Farralls also contributed to take the younger side over the line.
Harrop and Challinor watched on in relief from the Pavilion.
The game was well marshalled by umpires Cartwright and Beech. Thanks went to the cricket club for the use of the pitch and facilities.
Hoppers current team retained the John Moss Cup for the second year in a row, ending “a lovely day” that was enjoyed by players and spectators alike.
