Bootle win a place in final - but only just
Sunday 2nd September 2001

CHELMERE HOMES TROPHY SEMI FINAL

Bootle made it to their sixth successive knockout final but by the closest of margins to follow Huyton's win on Friday night making 145-7 in their innings of 45 overs with opener Tommy Reilly top scoring with 31, John Horrocks taking 3-35. In reply, New Brighton had reached 125-6 by the 39th over when Simon Verry was caught by Ian Cockbain off the bowling of Kelby Pickering after he had deposited Richard Hignett for six into the upper decks of the pavilion in his only over. New Brighton's last three wickets fell for three runs in the space of ten balls, giving Bootle a three run victory.

The game will be one to forget for New Brighton's Neil Cross, who sustained a broken right thumb and damaged ligaments from a rising ball from Chris Finegan. He will miss the remainder of the season which includes the Minor County play off against Lincolnshire at Grantham next Sunday-Tuesday.

Huyton's captain, Lawrence Wilson was present for the toss with Ian Cockbain for the venue of the final, and called correctly, resulting in the final being at Huyton Lane on Sunday 16th September 2001, stumps being pitched at 12:00 noon. scorecard