Ozanne rescues Cobo as Rovers cause panic

IF TOTAL COBO go on to win the Premier One title, they should look back on this victory and all buy TJ Ozanne a celebratory drink. The middle-order batsman is more used to crashing quick runs - hit or bust - a pinch-hitter with few pretentions as a slow builder of long innings.

But last night he produced an knock of responsibility after the top order succumbed meekly to some fine Rovers bowling.

At 24 for four after six overs chasing a modest 89 to win, Cobo were in trouble. Rovers were in control, their bowlers hitting a great line and length and their fielders throwing themselves around.

Then Ozanne changed the game. Gone was the usual expansive swing of the bat - apart from one lusty pull - and instead he worked the ball sensibly into gaps.

There was plenty of controversy - having mis-timed a pull off Mark Smith, he set off down the track to pinch a single, brushing past the bowler who then spilled the return catch. Instead, non-striker Alex Hunter was run out, but there were harsh words all round.

In came Jamie Nussbaumer and the teenager showed great character to help his senior partner knock off the 38 required for victory.

Rovers felt robbed. They had had Cobo on the rack after some great bowling from Matt Jeffrey, on the day his island starting place was confirmed, and Aaron Scoones.

The quickie speared one through Justin Ferbrache's defence and undid Stu Le Prevost with a slower ball.

Scoones bowled Matt Oliver the ball after dropping a sitter of a return catch, then induced Gary Rich to cut to point.

It was not a big target and should have been so much easier.

Scoones' 22 was the only knock of note until Matt Hallett and Paul Philp added 22 for the ninth wicket.

Rob Turville and Liam Smyth again had caused problems, neither getting full rewards for their accuracy and swing.

Cobo leapfrog St Pierre back into top spot but must beat Optimists on Thursday to force what is likely to be a play-off.