East Kilbride 1st X1 travelled to Anniesland on Saturday to take on a competitive Glasgow Academicals side. After overnight rain the pitch was damp, but with a fine forecast and the sun shining it was drying out quickly. This played a part in the decision of skipper Saeed to bat on winning the toss. His plan to see off the new ball, then build a total to defend as the pitch dried and was expected to get slower and lower. Openers Alum and Richardson gave the team a perfect start with a partnership of 75, before Richardson fell to the Accies left arm spinner. Kellett was next in and he struggled against the slow bowler, finding it difficult to rotate the strike and when he departed in the 24th over Khalid joined Alum at the crease. Alum continued to build an innings and carried his bat for an unbeaten 106 and Khalid chased him down playing shots all around the park to finish on 105 not out. The pair added 180 runs to leave the final score at an impressive 266 for 2.
The Accies reply started brightly , but was curtailed by a stunning catch from Richardson at mid on to give Richards the first wicket. The spinners were introduced quickly and Khalid and Mahmood in partnership rattled through 20 overs for only 50 runs, putting the squeeze on the home team. With good fielding from debutant Hunter and the youngsters Miekle and Jack the pressure increased. They picked up 3 wickets before drinks, allowing a quick blast from Saeed after drinks to deliver another 2 wickets. The final say however went to man of the match Alum who followed up his century with 4 wickets to complete the innings with Accies all out for 144. A big win under pressure as the title race hots up. With 2 games remaining East Kilbride remain in the title chase, which is looking like it may go to the last game of the season. Next week the team entertain Partick in a must win game.