The Essex League Plate Final proved a game too far for Harlow as they slipped to a 6 wicket defeat at Wickford.

Batting first on a tacky, nibbling deck only skipper Ben Yeats was able to show any resistance as Harlow floundered.

Ben carried his bat ending 62 not out from a total of 104 all out. Second highest score was extras.

Despite the apparent hopelessness of the situation Harlow struck twice to rock Wickford two down with zero in the runs column. Riddell and Umar Raza bowled superbly and shared a wicket apiece in their opening overs before Umar struck again with the score on 30-3.

Sadly, former Essex pro, Ronnie McKenna was dropped off the bowling of Riddell with the score on 47. It was Harlow’s last chance as they fell to a 6 wicket defeat despite Jake Messenger taking a late wicket.

Wickford were deserved winners on the day but nothing could alter the fact Harlow have had a wonderful season of overachievement.

A minor consolation was the Man of the Match award going to Ben for his innings earlier in the day.