The runs flowed freely in Chelmsford as batsmen enjoyed ideal conditions.

A slow pitch coupled with a rock-hard, lightning fast outfield meant that bowlers were always going to struggle, and it was a bad day for Horndon to lose the toss.

An early wicket reduced Chelmsford to 10-1, but the hosts cut loose to bat their way to an impregnable 276-1 from just 44 overs.

Robbie Dalrymple made an unbeaten 120, and he was partnered by Pete Jones (102).

Horndon had 61 overs to survive but in the end they comfortably escaped defeat on 234-6.

Jason Plomb top-scored with 55, while Richard Mullboccus made 49 not out. And the home bowlers also found it tough, with Eddie Lawrence bowling a long spell in the hot sun to finish with 2-94.

Horndon's Mark Warren reflected that it had been a bad toss to lose.

"It was such a hot day it was never going to be easy for a fielding side," he admitted. "It was very dry and the outfield was like a rocket.

"None of the bowlers got a lot for either side and we sent down a lot of poor balls."

Published Tuesday, June 3, 2003

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