A DEVASTATING opening spell of bowling from Josh Barrett propelled Stockton & Hopgrove to a surprise win over York II in the final of the Stephensons Estate Agents Junior Charity Cricket Cup.

Holders and favourites York II were undone by HPH York Vale League underdogs Stockton & Hopgrove in a thrilling match.

Batting first, York slumped to 18-4 after only three overs, thanks to Barrett first two over that produced three of the wickets – all clean bowled.

Glen Stevens then proceeded to steady the innings before he was dismissed for 39, but he received little support in the face of tight bowling and keen fielding.

The innings eventually closed at 83 all out, with Barrett taking 4-13 and Dan Fairclough 4-22.

In reply, Stockton too started badly as fast, tight bowling and keen fielding pinned down their batsmen.

Several tried forcing the pace and quickly departed so that after only eight overs the score was 48-8 and defeat seemed inevitable.

However, the ninth-wicket partnership dug in and, aided by one wayward over which realised 17 runs, they slowly started to eke out the runs.

Despite one batsman being injured and having the services of a runner the partnership steered Stockton to victory at 84-8 in fading light, having added 36 runs. York’s John Blundell returned 4-25 to no avail.

The man of the match award went to Barrett for his opening blitz that put York on the back foot.

Ian Reynolds, senior partner of the sponsors, presented the trophies and prize money.