Axminster v Chagford

IN this close  fought game at Axminister only six batsmen reached double figures. 

Put into bat skipper Jerry Christophers stood firm, as Rowlands (six) Mortimore 12, Lammonby 10, Paul Penberthy nine and Lord (0) all departed, but with his dismissal for a hard fought 38, the Chagford innings folded.

Although Jules Baker batting too low at No 11 enlivened proceedings with a four and a huge six in his 10 not out which enabled Chagford to reach the moderate score of 132.     

The Axminster bowling honours were shared by Taylor 2-47, Fuzzard three for 35, Wraight two for 15 but it was spinner Raoul East with three for 31 who caused the most trouble.

Axminister in reply lost M Wakeley quickly for three but his opening partner T Wakeley played some attractive shots all round the wicket but suddenly wickets began to fall as Murnane six, East (0) and Miller (0 fell to the inspired Del Lammonby.

Wakeley was then well caught by Grainger off Christophers for 47 and hopes of an unlikely Chagford victory began to surface. 

However Larcombe at number six took over Wakeley's mantle and played some expansive shots before being bowled by Lammonby for 27 and with that the tail subsided as Axminister were 113 all out.

Del Lammonby with seven for 49 and Jerry Christophers three for 51 except for one over, bowled throughout the Axminster innings, to give Chagford victory by 19 runs and seventeen points. 

Afterwards Skipper Jerry Christophers paid tribute to the fielding of the Chagford side, singling out 15-year-old Paul Penberthy for his outstanding fielding at cover point, in his first appearance for the senior side after some good performances in the seconds.

Chagford remain fifth in Division B of the Devon League in this very competitive Division.