Manchester dismiss Holmwood to reach Headley Cup final

Captian Andre Morgan and Oniel Roberts showed their skills with the ball and the bat, respectively, to propel their school Manchester High to final of the ISSA/Garce Headley Cup after dimissing Holmwood Technical High School in the semi-finals by taking first innings points on Wednesday.

Batting first, Holmwood was bowled out for 151, with Morgan being the pick of the bowlers as he claimed six for 36 runs. Tian Jarrett (46) and Jalani Sinclair (34) were the top scorers for Holmwood.

In reply, Manchester reached 76 for four when rain stopped play on the first day. Roberts, who opened the batting for the Mandeville-based institution resumed on his overnight score of 39, top-scored with 87 in Manchester's 178 all out to take first innings points.

Marlon Williams (five for 30) and Jarrett (five for 74) did the work with the ball for Holmwood.

Despite losing the first innings, Holmwood made a valiant attempt to salvage the game by posting 159 for six and declared.

outstanding first innings

With a target of 127 set, Manchester batted to the close of play reaching 56 for 4.

Barry Barnes coach of Manchester applauded the performances of Roberts and Morgan, who were outstanding in the first innings.

"We won the game because of the captain Andre Morgan. I think he bowled a very good spell of pace bowling. Oniel Roberts also who batted right through the innings and last person to put on 87. He was also the opener of the national under-17 team. I always ask that one of the big guys stand up and they did put their hands up to get us in a winning position today," he said.

"He (Morgan) was in the reserve of the national under-19 last year and we are looking forward to him getting into that team this year. He bowled extremely well in setting the foundation from yesterday. "

Morgan, who was pleased with his performance, said he wants to continue putting in consistent performances in order to take the title.

"I'm pleased with my performance so far and is just looking to continue improving. It's going good for me already, so I'll just have to work harder to come out on top," Morgan said.

"Winning this year is what we have our eyes on. Over the years, Manchester High is the only team to win it (Headley Cup) other than STETHS and this year we want to win it again."

Manchester will meet defending champions STETHS in the three-day finals set for Wednesday at STETHS.