MATCH winner David Lloyd admitted he was relieved to hit the winning runs to make sure Accrington reclaimed the Lancashire League title – then he could go and get a drink.
The 62-year-old former England and Lancashire coach came to the crease with Accrington needing eight to win from two overs in a nerve jangling finale to the season on Sunday.
Haslingden, who had held a 24-point lead at the top of the table just a few weeks ago, had lost their two previous games and then fell to Todmorden on Sunday, and it left Accrington needing to win at Lowerhouse to clinch the title they won last year.
And, after Paul Carroll – who, at 47, made up a 109-year partnership with Lloyd senior – lofted a six into the Lowerhouse crowd, the former England and Lancasire coach stroked away a boundary to claim the crown for a jubilant Accrington with seven balls left.
"I wanted to be higher up the order but they wouldn’t let me," said Accrington-born Lloyd senior who began his cricketing career at Thorneyholme Road and has been playing sporadically for the team depending on his commentating commitments over the past two years.
"But I knew I would come in as the rest were dilly-dallying around a bit. Paul hit a six and I asked him ‘Where did that come from?’ but that was the key and then I nipped a few in to get the winning runs.
"I was relieved as I wanted to get it over then I could go and get a drink.
"I got a medal but I have only played two games so I will give it to James Ormerod who was on holiday.
"They are a good set of lads here, they keep producing week in week out and it’s great to be a part of it.
"We are not the best fielding team and, man for man, Haslingden are probably better but we showed true grit to keep battling. I am sad for Haslingden but its good for our guys.
"I will certainly be Twittering about the win – and my part in it – this is certainly more interesting than watching the England cricket team at the minute."
