A quick summary of the round four match for the firsts: we batted too slowly scoring 131 in 49 overs, and the opposition knocked it off.
I spoke to the skipper at training who reported the same story as has been all season: players either look to score and find a way to get out, or shut up shop and go at two an over.
Again the bowling seems in better shape. Defending 131 is never easy but the core seamers seem to be doing everything they can. The spinners are less strong but still capable. Fielding is good and intense.
The key lesson for me is simple: The only way out is up. We have to get the top order scoring fifties. Until that happens, the bowling needs to keep going but we can't even assess effectiveness until we get a good score on the board.
The way we do that is "controlling the controllables" by preparing mentally and physically, staying confident and positive and backing our clear ability to come good. With a couple of super keen youngsters in the side next week, we can tip the balance.