Johan de Silva reflected on the Shepherd’s Cot clubs loss last weekend and looked ahead to their derby at North Middlesex

Highgate’s losing run in the Middlesex County League Premier Division extended on Saturday when they lost at home to Shepherds Bush.

The new boys produced the goods in the field, but couldn’t back it up with the bat as they were dismissed for 69 in reply to the visitors’ 204 all out.

Johan de Silva said: “Saturday was a disappointing result for the guys and although the encounter ebbed and flowed at times, ultimately Shepherds Bush got the better of the key moments.

“Bush opener Jack Brydon clattered the ball to all parts in a 31-ball 45 before he was caught off the bowling of Mohammad Ahmed.

“Following this extremely positive start for Bush, Highgate recovered and clawed things back exerting pressure through the middle overs and the period between lunch and tea.

“Bush were reduced to 121-8 but unfortunately some dogged late-order resistance led to their final score reading 204 all out in 59.1 overs.”

Uzair Amjaid continued his excellent form with 4-58 and was impressively backed up by Ahmed (3-31).

Chasing 205 to win, a solid start was required and Chris Arul (22) and fellow opener Shane McNamara (20) put on 39 for the first wicket.

But once they were both dismissed, the rest of the side struggled and Gourlay was left stranded at the end on 11 not out.

“The chase began in great fashion, with openers Chris and Shane seeing off the majority of the new ball,” said de Silva.

“However the loss of two quick wickets before tea changed the landscape of the game walking in at 45-2.

“Following this, the only resistance of any sort came from skipper Gourlay, who was left stranded on 11 not out as wicket tumbled around him.

“It was disappointing to lose in such a fashion, however credit must go to Bush pair Dexter Marsh (6-29) and James Kidson (4-21).”

This frustrating defeat for Highgate – their fourth in a row – keeps them in last place ahead of this Saturday’s trip to North Middlesex.

“We now turn our attention to the last seven games of the year, and will look to pick up a few wins to send us into the middle of the table. We start with a local derby this Saturday,” said de Silva.

“Credit once again must go to our Match Day sponsors the Victoria Stakes. It’s great to have the support of local businesses and we will be in there soon, hopefully celebrating a win.”