Devon seconds B

Barnstaple seconds v

Tavistock seconds

TAVISTOCK travelled to Barnstaple knowing they needed only five points to become champions of their league — but as often happens things were not easy.

Tavistock lost the toss and were asked to bat. They were soon in trouble. Centurion from last week, Webber, lost his off stump for nought and Josh Stephens followed two balls — later lbw for nought.

Captain John McGahey joined Goodchild at the wicket with a big job to do. Goodchild was rediscovering the form of last season and took charge stroking the ball through the gaps and scoring a fine 50 before being trapped lbw to Harwood.

This was a two-paced wicker not easy to score on and both innings were patient and diligent.

McGahey and Goodchild had put on an impressive 111 for the third wicket. This put Tavistock in control.

Chappell joined McGahey and they pushed the score onto 150 before McGahey straining for a quick single pulled his calf muscle and retired on 70.

Chappell continued onto 37, gaining Tavistock a total of 193.

This gave Tavistock four points, just one needed to be champions.

James McGahey got the breakthrough, bowling captain Bowden for nine.

Barnstaple were determined not to make it easy and dug in for a draw. John McGahey changed the bowling and this brought instant success when Loader popped a catch up to Mills at square leg off Thomas.

Progress was slow and despite 27 from Roe and 40 for Lake it was too late for Barnstaple to trouble the Tavistock score.

The winning draw (14 points) was more than enough for Tavistock to be crowned champions.

Captain John McGahey led his players off in a fitting end to a successful campaign.