It was back in August 2003 that Ampfield 1st X1 last won a game of competitive cricket so there was no concern shown by the Portsmouth 3rd team as they warmed up in readiness for this game.

The toss was won by Portsmouth and they elected to field leaving Ampfield to cope with the difficult conditions of a rain affected pitch.

The two openers got their heads down but scoring was difficult and after 20 overs Ampfield had only 54 runs on the board.

But this is a new Ampfield. There was belief and commitment shown by Safraz (46) and Allan Bollard who tore into the Portsmouth bowling with vigour.

Safraz thrashed the bowlers to all parts of the ground and was ably supported by the more conservative Mike Williams (13).

Bollard was bowled one short of his fifty but the damage had been done to Portsmouth's moral and Ampfield took full advantage finishing on 198 for 6.

The White Horse pub provided a truly excellent tea and the sun decided to make an appearance. Spectators appeared from nowhere as word got out that Ampfield were in a strong position. Deck chairs were unfolded and sunhats were donned.

Portsmouth had no intention of becoming the Ampfield whipping boys and batted with authority, however, the Ampfield bowling had more steel in it than usual with Andy Holding (24-4) taking two early wickets to have Portsmouth 7-2 off six overs.

Catches were being held and the bails were flying as decisions were going the way of Ampfield.

Things were going well, but with Portsmouth well behind the required run rate, Raid Cul (61) stepped up to the crease and tore into the Ampfield attack.

Two balls were lost as they went flying over the boundary and it was looking very bleak for Ampfield until Richard Light bowled a superb slower ball which confused Cul into returning an easy catch.

Paul Barnes (58-4) then started to force the middle order in to silly mistakes leaving no resistance in Portsmouth and they capitulated to 152 all out. Ampfield had won their first game in over a year and the players and spectators were elated.

Newly elected skipper Frank Dixie praised his team for their courage and persistence. "All these guys are heroes, not just for finally winning a game but also for not throwing in the towel."