County Match Programme 2017-18

Leading from the front

This was the story of both the Open and U160 matches at Wanstead House with contrasting fortunes for the two Essex teams.

The U160s were never in trouble as they kept their defence of the Amboyna Trophy alive against a well-matched Surrey side whilst the reverse was true for the Open team with their strong finish coming too late to worry Championship contenders Middlesex.

SCCU Open: Essex 7-9 Middx
At Wanstead. For Essex these days, to field a team within five grading points of Middlesex is an achievement in itself. However, a grading differential of five in a 16-board match is the point at which statistically it affects the odds and Middx took the match with three to play. Another earnest but "if only" performance, though we are in good company, having lost to Middlesex by similar margins to Kent and Surrey.

Other match Surrey 7-9 Kent.

SCCU U160: Essex 9½-6½ Surrey
At Wanstead. Essex were gifted a point start and from then on the team did not let up with plenty of battling match chess. Qualification is now in Essex' hands. An away win at Middlesex next time out is needed to deny them the Championship and keep Essex chances of the crown alive. A tricky run in as neither Middlesex nor Kent away are easy tasks.

Other match: Kent 7½-8½ Middx.

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