South Yorkshire Times, June 6, 1959

Cautious Darfield  Drop Victory Chance

Darfield 123 for 7, Houghton Main 127 for 8

Needing a six off the last delivery to win, Darfield fell just short of victory in a Yorkshire Council match against neighbours Houghton Main at Darfield on Sunday.

Batting first. Houghton made 127 for 8, and Darfield were 123 for 7 when overs expired. Though a bit of exertion might have brought the desired runs, they realised that Houghton’s bowling was too good for them to take chances, and were content to go at a steady pace.

Stuart Anderson (15 not out) and Dennis Batty (5 not out) were at the crease when the last delivery was sent to Batty. Had he been able to hit a six, victory would have been Darfield’s, but he managed only a single

This was an exciting game throughout, and played on what was the first really fine day this season.

For Houghton, Heaney scored a notable 52 not out. Wickets fell to George Hirst (three for 35) and Fred Harris (two for 29) and scorers for Darfield were Ian Randerson 34 and Roger Swift 29. Houghton’s George Pilkington was in fine form, taking three for 33.