A below par score of 159 proved enough for a morale boosting victory for the Oaks against a spirited RNA side at a cloudy and muggy Oakley Park on Sunday.
Batting first, the Oaks were soon in trouble, losing Brad Compton- Bearne immediately after hitting an obligatory towering six. A collapse soon ensued before the unlikely figure of Ben Allum joined a resolute Dan Jones to move the Oaks to respectability with a 50 + partnership.
Dan eventually went for a well-constructed 32 with Ben following soon after with an excellent personal best of 34, leaving it up to Ollie Rabley to compile an unbeaten 33 and a modest target to defend.
Ben Allum celebrates his highest score with his wife and dog
In response, RNA raced along at a rate that suggested an early finish, but when Perry King removed the opener, an inspired Brad Compton-Bearne steamed in with and excellent six-for to cause a cataclysmic collapse.
6 for 15 off 8 Overs, will win most matches and only an excellent unbeaten half-century from Graham Hooper kept RNA in the contest before Alex Brundle removed the dashing Deano James to complete a 21 run victory.
The other two wickets went to Dan Sumner who removed the dangerous Andy Butler to effectively win the match.
The game was played in a great spirit and it was good for the Oaks to get a weekend win after what has been a tough couple of days.
Up the Oaks!