Whitchurch Seconds v Plymstock AFTER being dismissed for only 62 the previous week away at Stoke Gabriel, Whitchurch Seconds were looking for a better batting performance at home to in form Plymstock. Again Skipper Hodge lost the toss, so Whitchurch had to bat first. Openers Hodge and Warwick started tidily creating a useful platform on which to build. Hodge was then out to a snorting delivery from Thomas (2-35). Heatley and Warwick then added 34 for the second wicket, before Smith joined Warwick to add 46 for the third wicket. At the half way point, Whitchurch looked well set on 95 for 3. However, after a brisk partnership of 49 between Smith and Tamblin, the wheels came off their innings. Smith battled well to top score with 63 and a total of 175 all out was competitive but should have been more. Barnicott lead the visitors bowling with 5 for 46. In reply, Plymstock started well, although the bowling was wayward as once again too many extras, 32, were conceded. Alford then lured Knight to pull a long hop direct to Elliott at square leg. Plymstock carried on scoring well with Williams (28) and Brace (33) looking well set. A couple of quick wickets from Tamblin (5 for 37) then turned the tide. Plymstock collapsed from 93 for 1 to 129 for 6 and a nervy finish was in store. Tamblin?s loopy spinners continued to cause problems to the visitors with good support received from the bowling of Elliott and Restall. Churchill claimed the ninth wicket for Whitchurch with Plymstock still needing 15 to win. A few ?agricultural shots? from Thomas took the match to the 49th and final over where two runs were needed. Only one ball was needed to see Plymstock creep home by one wicket. This was an encouraging performance from the seconds and which arguably merited more than the eight points they received. Next week Whitchurch Seconds face the long trip to Heathcoat. Pictured left: Opening the batting against Plymstock for Whitchurch Seconds is captain Steve Hodge.
