Burns proves to be too hot to handle once again

SEVENOAKS VINE

LORDSWOOD

LORDSWOOD’S TORMENTOR: Sevenoaks Vine’s Lorne Burns thoroughly enjoyed his trip to Chatham. The all-rounder scored his maiden Premier League century and claimed career best bowling figures
STRAIGHT BAT: David Harkin scores more runs for Sevenoaks Vine II against Hythe

Vine won by 60 runs

SEVENOAKS Vine continued their excellent form on Saturday with a superb victory at second placed Lordswood.

The win moves Vine up to fourth in the Premier League table, only seven points behind early leaders Blackheath.

All-rounder Lorne Burns was the star, hitting a century and taking six wickets.

"He played exceptionally. It's his third vital contribution of the season," skipper Karl Pearson said. "In all three of our wins he has played well.

"Of more concern to me is that we've won all three of our away games, but both games at home we've been thumped. We've got two home games in a row now, so we'll have to pull it all together."

Vine skipper Karl Pearson had no hesitation in batting first, after winning the toss with a dry pitch and perfect overhead batting conditions.

The decision was in some doubt after the hosts made a bright start with the ball, reducing Vine to 36-3. The situation almost reached crisis point when in-form John Bowden edged Dan Masters behind with the score on 40.

A no-ball saved the veteran and he made the most of his opportunity as he and Lorne Burns added 120 for the fourth wicket. Bowden departed for a well constructed 83, but Burns continued his recent purple patch with a glorious 120 not out, his maiden Premier League century.

Late order cameos from Pearson (19) and Day (18) helped Vine reach a very decent 273-8 at the interval.

Kent CCC youngsters Chris Piesley and Chris Vernon began the Lordswood reply in determined fashion and had reached 71 before a breakthrough was achieved.

Skipper Pearson, fresh from his second five-wicket haul of the season last week, induced a knick from Piesley and Ant Shales did the rest taking a smart catch behind.

Vernon continued to look dangerous and only the introduction of that man Burns started to tilt the balance in the favour of the visitors.

Vernon played on to Burns' very first ball for 75 and with him went the home side's best chance of victory. Burns tormented the Lordswood middle order and wickets fell frequently to both him and Bowden (2-8). Burns completed a stellar afternoon with career best Premier League figures of 6-42 as the final nine wickets fell to spin. This Saturday, Vine are at home to Bickley Park with a 12noon start.