This represented a daunting first fixture for Middlesex against a very strong Essex side who would be considered one of the contenders for the overall title. Preparations were inauspicious for Middlesex, with the lack of a team manager leaving the fixture at risk of suffering the same fate as our conceded Liberty tie. But some sterling work by a few key people allowed us to cobble together a team to defend the county’s honour. Circumstances then led to a couple of late dropouts at the crucial specialist lead position in the away team to further complicate the task. So we went into the game more in hope than expectation.

As it turned out the game followed the form book, with Middlesex bravely holding Essex back at the start before they staged a mid game breakaway particularly in the away rinks, allowing Essex to build a forty shot lead at 15 ends that Middlesex could make no inroads against, until Middlesex shook hands at 18 ends.

So a convincing if not unexpected win for Essex 140-81.  The team manager would like to thank all those who payed, particularly those who braved the traffic to travel to sunny Southend.

The team is listed here, and the scoresheet is enclosed here.