The cricket rivalry between Ibiza and Sporting Alfas was re-commenced last weekend on the White Isle and both teams came away content with their endeavours.
With over 30 years of cricket played between the two clubs, toing and froing between the island and mainland, this year was especially poignant as the sides played for the inaugural Ben Marriner memorial trophy, in honour of the former Sporting Alfas and Spanish international who sadly passed away last year in May.
Ibiza became the first recipients of the trophy winning comfortably against Alfas. Match two and the visitors fared much better. Batting first they scored 248 for six. Wajid (89) and Gary Crompton (70) gained the plaudits for Alfas, whilst Paul Crutwell was the main threat with the ball, taking three wickets for 43 runs.
In reply, Ibiza managed 192 for 9. Sam Gooda (48) and Jonathan Dudding (35 not out) offered resistance but Alfas eventually ran out winners by a comfortable margin of 56 run margin.
Ibiza compete in the prestigious Balearic Cup next weekend against Menorca and Mallorca, whilst Alfas entertain a touring side calñled the Lords Toads on May 20th. Ibiza head to the Woodbridge Oval later in the year to play Alfas the weekend of November 18th.
