Devon League A Division

Tavistock 2nd X1 v Exmouth 2nd X1

 TAVISTOCK travelled to Exmouth with a weakened side but in good spirits for the fight after recent victories.

Exmouth batted first on a hard bouncy wicket, something not seem much this season. Wayne Downham and Simon Gliddon stared well and Exmouth made slow steady progress and at 76 for three the game was finely balanced. Collinge appeared to glove the ball to the  Keeper this was not given and Collinge took full advantage, flinging the bat at everything, the ball flying agonisingly close to the fielders. When he was finally out for 44 the game had changed, Exmouth with wickets in hand played with freedom and got full value for their shots. The Tavistock bowling became erratic but the fielding was good and despite an excellent spell of two for 32 from Wayne Downham, Exmouth amassed 255 for eight.

The inexperienced youngster in the Tavistock side would have to bat very well to reach this total, but the Exmouth attack, which included a first team premier division bowler was too strong for them.

Rob Milligan, Mark Webber and Chris Monger were all out, only adding 8 runs to the score.

It was left to the old guard to show them the way — most impressive was Nick Goodchild who hooded Cliff for two fours in two balls during a faultless 70.

He was well supported by captain John McGahey who ground out a determined 38 before being caught behind.

When he was out Tavistock were 145 for six — an over later they were 146 for nine and Tavistock had almost capitulated but a few blows from John Smith and Nick Bennett pushed the total to 158 all out and defeat.