Harlow CC U17s produced one of their most complete performances of the season as they defeated Reed CC U17s by a commanding 119 runs, combining explosive batting, disciplined bowling and excellent fielding.

Having won the toss, Harlow captain elected to bat first on what looked to be a good batting surface. The decision paid immediate dividends as openers A. Jessey and G. Jessey dominated the new ball with a superb opening partnership that put Reed under pressure from the very first over.

A. Jessey played the perfect anchor’s role, compiling a fluent 50 from 39 balls, finding the boundary seven times and rotating the strike intelligently. At the other end, G. Jessey was more aggressive, smashing 48 from just 25 deliveries, including seven fours and two sixes, striking at an outstanding 192.00. Their partnership laid the ideal foundation for a big total.

The momentum never slowed. F. Crook maintained the scoring rate with a lively 17 from 11 balls, before J. Fuller took the attack to Reed’s bowlers with a blistering 34 from only 17 deliveries, clearing the ropes twice in an entertaining innings. H. Wren then provided the perfect finish, remaining unbeaten on 28 from just 15 balls, while T. Morgan added an unbeaten 7, helping Harlow finish on an imposing 211/4 from their 20 overs.

Despite the total, Reed’s L. Hall bowled an excellent spell to finish with 3-17 from 3 overs, while J. England and E. Heslam claimed one wicket each.

Facing a required rate of over ten runs an over, Reed needed a fast start but Harlow’s bowlers never allowed them to settle. The opening attack of C. Scholtz and E. Allen kept things tight before the change bowlers took control.

The breakthrough came courtesy of S. Robertson, who produced an outstanding spell of 3 overs, 2 wickets for just 6 runs, removing two key batters and putting Reed firmly on the back foot. O. Syrett matched those figures with another excellent spell of 2 wickets for only 8 runs, while T. Morgan bowled with exceptional control, conceding just one run from his two overs and claiming a wicket.

Z. Burns also picked up a wicket, while G. Jessey struck in his only over, ensuring wickets were shared across the attack.

Although A. Nash (28) and J. Heslam (21) offered some resistance, Reed never threatened the target and finished on 92/7 from their 20 overs, leaving Harlow comfortable winners by 119 runs.

The victory was built on contributions from every department. The top order set the platform, the middle order accelerated brilliantly, the bowlers maintained relentless pressure, and the fielding was outstanding.