Anthony Foster, Freelance Writer

Eltham's victorious cricket team celebrate its second title in a week after beating Waterford in the JIIC 50-overs final at Chedwin Park yesterday. - Photo by Anthony Foster

ELTHAM HIGH won their second Urban Area cricket title, the Jamaica International Insurance Company (JIIC) 50-Overs competition, within a week when they defeated Waterford by four wickets at Chedwin Park yesterday.

In securing their third straight hold on the JIIC title, Eltham, however, were made to work hard after they were reduced to three for two and 51 for five, chasing Waterford's mere 124.

However, the Spanish Town-based school, which last week secured its fourth straight hold on the Grace Shield, were rescued by Sanjay Watson and Frederick Hermitt.

In their 71-run sixth-wicket stand, the two batted responsibly but Watson, trying to finish the match in style, fell for 37 to an easy catch at mid-on off Damille Campbell with the team only a run away from victory.

In the end, Hermitt, who was left standing on 20, hit the winning run.

Earlier, when Waterford batted, extras top-scored with 38. André Johnson got 22 not out against Joseph Dennie (3-23) and Hermitt (2-16).

Mixed feelings

Eltham's coach, Oral Simpson, expressed mixed feelings after the team's win.

"They made a hash of the entire game because we should have won easily," Simpson said. "I am not satisfied because we gave away 38 extras. We were very indisciplined, especially our fast bowlers ... but all in all, I am satisfied with the win."

Meanwhile, Waterford's coach, Renford Pinnock Sr, said the better team won.

"We tried our best, but the better team won," said Pinnock, a former Jamaica player.

Pinnock said he hoped his boys learnt something from Eltham's professional approach.