ROYSTON recorded their second win of the season, beating Histon seconds by 63 runs. It was a convincing win for The Crows, who are starting to find some form, and despite losing Matt Graham early on they showed some much-needed patience and resilience th

ROYSTON recorded their second win of the season, beating Histon seconds by 63 runs.

It was a convincing win for The Crows, who are starting to find some form, and despite losing Matt Graham early on they showed some much-needed patience and resilience that will hopefully stand them in good stead.

Royston coach Richard Temple said: "It was a really good performance, and for the first time in a while, we really did play some sensible cricket.

"We were under pressure at the start, but on such a wet wicket we knew anything over 140 would have been a competitive score."

And they did just that, with the hosts building their innings around the clever partnership of Paul Miller (53) and Temple (32).

In reaching his first half century of the season, Miller impressed with an exciting display of attacking shots, while Temple showed his experience and calming authority.

Royston did lose Jon Baston and Martyn Tokley for ducks, although when Ashley Judge entered the action, he lit up the hosts' innings further with some bludgeoning blows for a well-worked 33.

As a result Royston totalled 162 from their 45 overs, a score that was more than competitive considering the conditions.

And they followed that with another commanding performance on the field, Temple (10.1-3-27-4) leading the way with a strike in the first over, and Chris Hootton following suit, thanks to a tricky catch from Miller.

Histon never threatened, with only Jack Watson (22) and Harsha Perera (19) offering any resistance, and were all out for 99.

Temple said: "I think we won only one game last season, so to have two wins so far this season already is quite pleasing.

"But it is only two games so I wouldn't want to go overboard.

"However, we're showing better balance and have a number of players who can both bat and bowl.

"We've brought in a few new players, which means that we're calling upon our second team much less.

"As a result, the seconds are also looking stronger, and could well be looking at promotion this season."

Looking for a third league win, Royston travel to Hardwick and Caldecote, who are bottom of the Cambs League Division 2, on Saturday. A win for Royston would do much to cement their mid table position.

Temple added: "We'll definitely be looking for a third win and we hoping to have a strong side out. We've just got to be looking to do the basics well, and take our time with the bat.

"And if our bowlers can keep bowling with consistency in the right areas, then I think we'll start looking like a team that should be playing at a higher level."

n Royston played host to Aspenden Standon and Puckeridge last night (Wednesday) in the quarter-finals of the popular Keatley Cup.

Holders Reed faced Therfield and Kelshall, while Royston Polaris entertained Bassingbourn.

Last Friday, Buntingford booked their place in the semi-finals, beating Elmdon.