Those days are long gone in Test cricket, but not so in local matches and where, on Saturday, Matlock were skittled on just that sort of wicket from the days of yore, by a bowler on the top of his game, gaining turn and lift from a wicket on the helpful side.

Matlock had done well firstly to get the game played, with hard work going in on Saturday morning, and upon winning the toss were very happy to insert the visitors on a wet wicket.

Without doubt the three main bowlers bowled well.

Mandla Mashimbyi (44-3) gaining lift at a fair lick, Adam Burton (33-4) always bowling a full length, and Steve Haslam (28-3) keeping the batmen busy with his accurate offies.

Only Andy Barlow impressed with the bat and the innings closed on 132.

With Andy Smith (36) and Martin Leatherday (21) getting Matlock off to a 62 runs opening stand, one would have thought that Matlock were home, but Stainsby delayed the introduction of left arm spinner Barlow until the wicket had dried just enough to begin to grip and play tricks, and how did he take advantage.

His 12 over spell of controlled, spitefully turning and lifting deliveries had all players in trouble, and he thoroughly deserved his 6-23 return, his final wicket coming with just two balls remaining in the game.

Once again Stainsby had beaten Matlock at the very end.

Barlow was excellent, but he was helped along the way by some plain stupid cricket by some players who ought to know better.

Captain Pell made his opinions known afterwards, and although the rollocking was generally issued, it was pretty clear where his comments were aimed.

Such was the standard of performance that it was decided not to name a man of the match.