Devon League Chagford v Hatherleigh WITH Hatherleigh starting at the top of the league it was important that Chagford perform in order to claw back much needed points and they didn?t disappoint. On a beautiful hot sunny day, Hatherleigh chose to bowl. There was an excellent foundation set by openers Owen (18) and Christophers (34) and with Coburn waying in with a quick 23 the fielding team began to wilt, quieten and field poorly. It was down to Colin Mortimore (77) and Josh Rankin (59) to destroy the bowling by chancing their arm with big hits to all sides of the ground. Chagford finished on 241 for 4 from the alloted overs with only Rogers 61 for 2 and Gillespie 55 for 2 showing any form. Chagford kept the pressure by bowling tightly and taking two early wickets. Hatherleigh?s only chance was overseas player Barnes, who after driving beautifully for 44 but was beaten for pace by quickie Rankin. Only Gillespie held things together for 37 while the rest failed to adapt to the pressure. Hatherleigh were all out with 5 overs to go for 150. Chagford bowlers were excellent with Rankin 5 for 26, Wakefield 28-3, Christophers 42-2 and they were supported with tight fielding, with keeper Lord taking five catches. Hatherleigh?s loss by 91 runs tightens things up at the top with local teams Chagford and Bridestowe all vying for that one promotion place.
