EYNSFORD won the biggest game in the club’s history to book a dream trip to Lord’s.

In a thrilling npower National Village Cup semi-final, they saw off two-time former winners Shipton Under-Wychwood.

Eynsford will now play Sheriff Hutton Bridge from north Yorkshire in the final on Sunday, August 28.

Opener James Ashdown produced undoubtedly the innings of his career, his undefeated 121 including 17 fours and one six.

Eynsford lost what they thought was a crucial toss and Shipton reached 52 without loss off nine overs.

Ben Wise’s (2-29) introduction was a turning point, though, and he immediately broke through.

Suddenly Shipton were 55-2 and Ben was joined by brother Dan who took a further wicket as the pair bowled a tight spell in tandem.

Eynsford then took three quick wickets as Ian Playfoot (4-32) bowled a fine spell of off-spin.

Shipton responded with some gutsy tail-end hitting to reach 198-9 off their 40 overs.

The home side’s reply started positively, reaching 72 off 14 overs before quarter-final hero Gary Atkins was caught behind for 11.

Jamie Wise then joined Ashdown who was looking well set.

However, when Wise was bowled, Ford were 88-2 and it needed a third wicket partnership of 39 with Playfoot to steady nerves.

Ford were 127-3 in the 26th over and the large crowd were giving plenty of support but a quick wicket meant Ford still needed 58 runs for victory off 11 overs.

Patient batting from Paul Geear who played a crucial innings on his way to 27, which included two sixes, eased the pressure.

But it was only fitting that Ashdown hit the winning runs with two boundaries off the final two deliveries of the penultimate over.

Entry is free for the final which starts at 11am.

To book a seat on the club coach, contact Colin Wise on 01322 862951.