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St. John's pull off magnificent win in Menorca International Sixes



St. John's completed a memorable season on Thursday at Biniparell in Menorca when they added the Menorca International Sixes trophy to their five domestic trophies when they held off a determined Northern Nomads challenge to win by 14 runs in the final. In the end it was a true team performance that gave them the win. Batting first the Saints made 99 from their 10 overs but it needed a late rally from skipper Russell Miller ( 24 not out ) who hit 3 straight sixes in the penultimate over after Grant Atchison and Scott Pearce  had both made 25 against some tight bowling before having to retire. It was to be the 24 runs off that 9th over that were to prove decisive as the Saints bowlers gave one last big effort after a gruelling 10 matches over the six days in hot weather. Batting second the Nomads were restricted to 85 for 4 as Miller, Scott Pearce, Greg Hawke and Dave Lockett all bowled well again. But it was the 2 overs from Grant Atchison in the middle of the innings that were key and Grant responded with 2 excellent overs and the wicket of Ian Williams. Earlier Saints had struck a massive blow when the Nomads most dangerous player Robbie Houghton was brilliantly caught by Russ Miller at long-off off the bowling of Greg Hawke who had bowled superbly all tournament and it was he who stifled any lingering hopes Nomads had with a fine last over much to the delight of the Manx contingent and the rest of the crowd as they recorded a popular victory.They also received a lot of support from the lads from Stretton CC and Rampside CC who they got on well with all week.

Amongst the supporters were the former Lieutenant Governor Air Marshall Ian MacFadyen and his wife Sally who were kind enough to host the squad at their apartment in Menorca on the eve of the final, a visit that was much appreciated and was really enjoyed by the whole squad. Also supporting were regulars Colin and Mallie Firth of Douglas who were delighted to witness the win.

At the Gala Dinner the Saints squad were also delighted when Stuey Mainwaring picked up the Man of the Tournament award for epitomising the Spirit of Cricket with his wholehearted efforts for the Odd Jobs team that he volunteered to play for throughout the week.

The Saints winning team was Russell Miller, Scott Pearce, Grant Atchison, Dave Lockett, Greg Hawke and wicket-keeper "Beefy" Thomas. The other squad members were Paul Nicholson and Nick Wallinger. Stuey Mainwaring and Chairman Dougie Lister also travelled.