Devon D division
Whitchurch Wayfarers v Yelverton Bohemians
RELEGATION is looming for the Whitchurch Wayfarers.
Another defeat in a game that was theirs for the taking creates a worrying gap at the foot of the table.
An early morning downpour created a 'sticky' wicket. Batting first was always going to be difficult and so it proved as Whitchurch were bowled out for 84 inside 22 overs.
Richard Hall retired hurt having damaged some tendons. Only Tom Jackson (27) and Pete Freedman (17) provided any real resistance as Broughton (39-3) and Brain (22-4) ran through the batting. Several batsmen clean bowled as they misjudged the line.
From this point on the game was going to have an early finish in favour of the Bohemians. Yelverton quickly found themselves in difficulties at 38-4 as Woodrow and Vernon took early wickets.
A partnership of 44 runs between Garland and Chapman turned the game. At 82-4 with just two runs required the match appeared over but it took a further four overs to find these runs and three wickets fell causing considerable anxiety in the away dressing room. Smith eventually hit a four to settle the nerves and take the points. How Whitchurch must have rued the extras that slipped through the net. In such a low scoring game 22 wides makes a big difference.
Whitchurch need to start hitting a winning streak if they are to avoid relegation.
Future fixtures: on Saturday the Whitchurch firsts are away to Ipplepen and the seconds are at home Plymouth Civil Service; Sunday ladies host Hatherleigh while the men visit the Elephant's Nest; touring side Theale and Thilehurst visit on Monday; TEL South Petherwin at home and Callington away. Touring side Lavant visit on Wednesday.