This was the nearly game for Rosaneri as a match winning position was squandered by the mother of all batting collapses. 

The game started at a frantic pace as the hosts got off to a flyer by going at nearly 8 an over for the opening 5 overs, but they did lose wickets. 

A period of stabilisation and some great bowling brought the run rate down to a more realistic 5 an over, and wickets tumbled at consistent intervals. The downside throughout this period though was some awful catching in which no fewer than 4 dollies were put down. 

The captaincy was balanced, thoughtful and inspired throughout which helped to close the Sawbridgeworth innings with Rosaneri nicely perched for a shot at victory. 

The closing spells from Jimmy Mitchell and Mat Freeman deserve particular mention. 

It is also worth highlighting that Slaps’ figures at first glance look average, but they greatly undersell the way he bowled with the baulk of the dropped catches being spilled off his shift. 

Tea was a splendid affair, then came the batting. 

It all started very well with Big Mike and Mr Bell putting runs on the board at more or less the required rate until Mr Bell went to start a mini collapse. 

Tony and Cuz followed with not many more on the board, but then came a good period for the pinks with Mike and Jim turning the game back into Rosaneri’s favour. 

Jim started to accelerate and with victory starting to look realistic disaster struck. 

Mike couldn't get things going and looked knackered after two hours batting in the full sun, but he did more than enough with an outstanding 53.

Rosaneri then lost 6 further wickets for only 20 odd more runs to complete a disappointing defeat. 

There have been massive steps taken since the 2008 massacre, but we must count this as one we threw away.