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Match Report Sun 27 April: 1st XI vs Bowdon CC - ECB National Club Championship (Preliminary Round 2) (Home)
Match Report Sat 26 April: 1st XI vs Edgworth CC (Away)
Match Report Sat 26 April: 2nd XI vs Woodhouses CC 2nd XI (Home)
After winning the toss and electing to bat on a good-looking surface,
Woodhouses got off to a strong start. Their openers compiled a fluent 74-run
stand, threatening to set a commanding total. However, the introduction
of Owen Hogben turned the tide. He struck twice - first breaking the
opening partnership, then dismissing the other opener shortly after, to leave
the visitors at 115-2.
Clifton’s bowlers then seized control of the innings. Lewis was the standout, delivering a superb spell of 3 wickets for just 20 runs in his 5 overs. Alongside him, Liam and Hogben chipped in with two wickets apiece, keeping the pressure on through the middle overs. Woodhouses stumbled to 172-7 from their 45 overs, never quite recovering their early momentum.
Clifton’s reply didn’t begin smoothly, with a wicket falling on the very first
ball. But any nerves were quickly settled as Dan Jones joined Ethan to
begin the rebuild. Although the second opener departed for 19 with the score at
40-2, a crucial 70-run stand between Jones and Steven Judge steadied
the chase.
Jones played fluently, reaching a well-earned 50 before
being given out shortly after his milestone. Judgey, calm and composed,
continued the push towards victory with Hogben providing steady support. With
the target in sight, Sam Winstanley joined Hogben at the crease and
the pair comfortably saw Clifton home.
Owen Hogben finished unbeaten on 31, capping off a fine all-round performance, while Winstanley added 15* to seal a 6-wicket win with 12 overs to spare.
Match Report Sun 20 April: 3rd XI vs Monton CC 3rd XI (Away)
One of Worthington’s wickets came with a moment of real bravery from Owen Hogben at first slip. After taking a blow to the face earlier in the match, Hogben showed great character and courage to hold on to a sharp chance off Worthington’s bowling — a moment that epitomised the team's spirit in the field.
Match Report Sat 19 April: 2nd XI vs Golborne CC 2nd XI (Away)
Dream Start for 2s too!
The 2025 GMCL season got off to a flying start for Clifton Cricket Club as they produced a commanding all-round performance to defeat Golbourne CC on their own turf. On a cool but dry opening day at Golbourne, Clifton skipper Liam Dorsey lost the toss and was asked to bat first — a decision that ultimately backfired for the hosts.
The innings began with youthful promise as Owen Hogben and Ethan Kite took to the crease, facing the new ball with confidence. While the openers provided a steady start, it was at number three where Dan Jones really got the scoreboard ticking. Jones played with fluency and maturity, notching a solid 56 and anchoring the innings through the early middle overs.
Then came the standout knock of the day — Jordy Higham played a sparkling innings, punishing anything short and driving with elegance on his way to a superb 83. Higham’s innings shifted the momentum decisively in Clifton’s favour.
As the innings drew to a close, Steve McManus provided the fireworks, finishing with a quickfire 21* — capped off with two towering sixes that delighted the travelling Clifton supporters. Clifton CC closed their innings on an imposing 255/6, laying down a marker for the season ahead.
With a strong total on the board, Clifton’s bowling attack came out firing. Lewis Keogh and the experienced Rob Meredith shared the new ball, keeping things tight in the opening exchanges. However, it was the introduction of leg-spinner Owen Hogben that truly turned the screws.
Hogben delivered a masterclass in spin bowling, bamboozling Golbourne’s middle order and finishing with outstanding figures of 5/51. His control and variation proved too much for the home side to handle.
Captain Liam Dorsey led by example with the ball, taking 3/17 in a tidy spell that broke the back of Golbourne’s resistance. Clifton's bowlers worked in tandem, applying relentless pressure until Golbourne CC were eventually bowled out for just 118.
A special mention to Oliver Dunn for lasting around 10 overs on his 6 year return before pulling up with a hamstring injury, hope to see you back in action soon!
With the dominant 137-run victory, Clifton not only secured an emphatic win but also collected the vital bowling bonus point — a perfect way to kick off their GMCL campaign.
A composed batting display, some excellent individual performances, and a ruthless bowling effort showcased Clifton CC’s intent for the season. With young talent stepping up and experienced heads guiding the way, Clifton looks well-poised for a strong 2025.
Match Report Sat 19 April: 1st XI vs Flowery Field CC (Home)
To say that the club had a comfortable first weekend of the season, would be a considerable understatement after all three teams picked up winning points with all three also snatching an extra point under the new bonus point system.
The firsts got the ball rolling at Manchester Road as Dan Higham further enhanced his reputation as an exceptional "up th'ill" bowler with three top order scalps after Flowery Field lost the toss and were inserted by new skipper Sam Dorsey. New signings Finlay Testa and Oliver Sleight bowled down the hill without luck as the visitors grafted away to reach 100-4, with new overseas Matt Van Dyk making his first significant contribution with a spectacular boundary save that Oliver Sleight hurled in to run out Ul Haq. At this point, the spinners were introduced and they ran through the remaining batting order with Ben taking 3-12 and Mason 3-31 as the visitors went to tea with just 126 on the board.
Matt Howarth unfortunately tested the juggling skills of the gully fielder in the first over, after which Sam and another new signing, Jack Stanley, eased their way to a nine wicket win with Sam competing an accomplished first half century of the season and Jack finishing on 41 not out. It'll no doubt be a bigger test next week at Edgworth, but we really couldn't have asked for a better start to the season.
2025 Chairman's Message
After what has felt like a never-ending winter, we are finally here and ready to kick off the 2025 season, with our first games taking place tomorrow. The ground is looking absolutely stunning, and we owe a huge thank you to Drew, Philip, and our dedicated team of volunteers. Your hard work and countless hours behind the scenes have given us a truly top-class playing surface. Thank you for everything you do.
A special good luck to our three Senior captains - Sam Dorsey (1st XI), Liam Dorsey (2nd XI), and Steve McManus (3rd XI) as they lead their teams into the new season. Your leadership and commitment set the tone for us all, and we are right behind you.
A very warm welcome to our overseas amateur, Matt Van Dyk, and to all our new players joining us at Manchester Road. We are so excited to have you with us and can’t wait to see the impact you will make both on and off the field.
To all our Senior and Junior players, here is to a season full of growth, teamwork, and unforgettable moments. Play with passion, play for each other, and most importantly, enjoy every second out there.
Lastly, we still have sponsorship opportunities available, with our ever popular £30 match ball sponsorship going fast, don’t miss your chance to support the club and be part of the journey - email: cliftonccmembership@gmail.com to book yours.
Let’s make 2025 a season to remember.
Nick Flaxman, Chairman
Clifton Cricket Club Pool Tournament
🎱 Finals Night Report
Friday, 28 March
As the tournament reached its dramatic climax, Finals Night at Clifton Cricket Club delivered everything you could want: high stakes, local heroes, and a few surprises. The evening featured two semi-finals followed by the grand final, with four standout players remaining from a field of 32 competitors.
📊 Group Stage Highlights
From October through January, players battled it out in a round-robin group format. Several early favourites hit the ground running, and a number of new names made serious statements.
Four players came heartbreakingly close to the top 16, missing out by the finest of margins:
Owen Hogben brought flair and confidence to every match, and had one of the most exciting playing styles in the tournament.
Sam Winstanley pushed some of the top players to the limit in close games and showed real grit in late-night fixtures.
Dave Wild notched up solid wins and proved a tricky opponent throughout.
Steve Judge was right in contention until the final few group nights — a couple of frames either way and he was in.
All four were serious contenders and are sure to be dangerous in next year’s competition.
🔥 The Semi-Finalists & Their Road to Finals
Nick Flaxman (Chairman of the Club)
Nick’s run to the semi-final was solid and composed. In the Last 16, he edged out Ian Morris 4–1, followed by a convincing 5–1 win over Paul Dunn in the quarter-final. Nick had arguably the smoothest route to the final four, playing measured, tactical pool throughout.
Odds to win going into semis: 8/11
Neil Winstanley (Pool Team Player)
Neil showed class throughout the group stages and brought that same form into the knockouts. He demolished Chris Lord 4–0 in the Last 16 and dispatched Harry Golland 5–2 in the quarters. Known for his clinical finishing and table awareness, Neil was the form man.
Odds to win going into semis: 3/1
Steve McManus (Cricket Team Player)
Steve might be known more for his cover drives than cue shots, but he surprised the field with a composed 4–0 win over Stu Vickers and then dismantled Paul Jones 5–1 in the quarters. He entered the semis with confidence and nothing to lose.
Odds to win going into semis: 5/1
Adam Richmond (Club Steward)
Adam had been a quiet contender all season. His 4–0 win over Sam Brooks in the Last 16 and a shock 5–0 whitewash of John Littler in the quarters turned heads. A player with understated skill and good temperament.
Odds to win going into semis: 3/2
⚔️ Semi-Finals – Two Statement Wins
🎱 Semi-Final 1: Neil Winstanley vs Adam Richmond
Both Neil and Adam accidentally potted the black during separate frames — a rare sight at this level that underlined the tension of the night. Despite that, it was Adam who settled quicker and took control of the match.
Final Score: 6–2 to Adam Richmond
🎱 Semi-Final 2: Nick Flaxman vs Steve McManus
Nick came out sharp and focused, using his experience to control the pace and apply pressure early. Steve, who had played with freedom all tournament, couldn’t quite find the same rhythm under the spotlight. Nick took his chances well and pulled away in the second half of the match.
Final Score: 6–2 to Nick Flaxman
🏆 The Final – Nick Flaxman vs Adam Richmond
Played immediately after the semis, the final had a proper club atmosphere — tense but respectful, with both players enjoying strong local support.
Adam went behind for the first time in the whole tournament, with Nick taking an early lead and applying tactical pressure from the off. Adam responded well, but Nick’s safety play and long potting were on point. In the end, it was the Chairman who held his nerve and controlled the key frames.
Final Score: 7–4 to Nick Flaxman
🥇 Champion: Nick Flaxman (Chairman)
The defending champion retained his crown in style.
A calm, commanding presence throughout the tournament, Nick timed his run to perfection. Known for his tactical mind and smooth cue action, he raised his game on Finals Night — dispatching the outsider in the semis and overcoming the tournament’s most consistent player in the final. His experience, focus, and ability to manage pressure made him a worthy back-to-back champion and a popular winner among the club.
🥈 Runner-Up: Adam Richmond (Club Steward)
Adam’s campaign was nothing short of exceptional. He sailed through the group stages and knockout rounds without ever falling behind — until the final. A player with sharp shot selection and a cool temperament, Adam proved he belongs among the club’s elite and earned huge respect from players and spectators alike. He’ll no doubt be back next year, with one more step in his sights.
Bill Dorsey 1959 - 2025
Bill Dorsey who has died aged 65, was involved at Clifton Cricket Club for almost thirty years. He began, like many, by supporting his eldest son Liam in junior teams, an ever-present supporter and helper at both home and away matches. His contribution led him to be elected to the General Committee where his practical skills were greatly appreciated in fixing and maintaining the clubhouse. He also served for a time on the Finance Committee before becoming the Club Groundsman, having learned his trade on the job from his predecessor.
Bill took great pride in his work and as his experience grew he improved the playing surface to the highest standard, providing consistently good pitches and enabling Clifton Cricket Club to be recognised as one of the best grounds in the GMCL, hosting cup finals along with regional and county matches. His love of the Club and his role extended to more than the playing area; tidying, cleaning, maintaining, always on hand to greet and talk to visitors or solve a problem and presenting the Club in the best possible way. So much he did around the Club went unseen, but was appreciated by all.
A loyal and dedicated member, he will be sorely missed, and our thoughts and condolences go to Michele, Liam, Sam and all the family.
Bill Dorsey
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