Having played a few matches the previous season,
the Walsall Observer recorded what appears to be Pelsall Albion's
opening match of their first full season. dated May 16th.
1885 It notes that Pelsall Albion played at home against Walsall
St. Marks and the team comprised of H. Sheargold, F. Snape,
J. Arms, A. J. Lloyd. W. Rowley, F. Mills. J. Haywood, C.
Lowe, R. Gormans, T. Lloyd. J. Edwards. Albion won the match
75-64, the top batsmen of the day being W. Rowley (31) and
H. Sheargold (27). The match was played on what was known
as The Railswood Farm ground. In actual fact, this was to
be the Albion's ground for the next 25 years. Reference to
Pelsall Albion then began to be fairly common in the newspapers
of the day. Games were recorded against rivals still encountered
today, such as Bournville, Hammerwich and Walsall Y.M.F. The
1887 season opened at Railswood with a game against Christies
on May 28th. Albion dismissed Christies for a modest 5 all
out, thanks to some good bowling by G. Breeze (4-3). Albion
went in to bat and for the first time in their existence exceeded
the hundred barrier, making 125 runs. Top batsman of the day
being J.Stackhouse (68 n.o.).
The highlight of the 1896 season was the match at Railswood
against Netherton Peep of Day, when the home side recorded
their first ever two hundred plus score. They won the match
208-36, the main scorers being T. Dilks (68), J. Dilks (Capt.)
(93). E. Owen (28) and Price (25). Top bowler of the day was
E. Owen (4-11). July 22nd. 1899, was an important date for
Pelsall Albion. A report in the Walsall Observer states: -
On this occasion the new pavilion was used for the first time,
and the Albion officials are very grateful for the patronage
and pecuniary assistance of all who have subscribed towards
the erection of this useful accessory to the cricket field.
"The Pelsall Victoria Brass Band was in attendance under
the able conductorship of Mr. E. Rowley and played a nice
selection which was listened to with much pleasure by the
spectators".
To celebrate, Albion played Bloxwich Wesley and won the match
34-20, the bowlers being in good form, J.Stackhouse (6-10)
and H. Breeze (4-9).