Devon D

Feniton v Whitchurch firsts

WHITCHURCH first XI put in a much improved performance to frustrate Feniton.

Batting first Feniton got off to a quick start with Kingdon hitting a swift 31 before being bowled by Josh Vernon. Swannell (99) then took the lead but Sambells (3 for 88), having a really good period of opening bowling, removed Feniton's dangerous middle order.

Pullin (42), Selley (32) and Frankpitt (56) took advantage of the short boundary and some indifferent bowling. Feniton declared on 304-6 with two overs to spare and must have fancied their chances of a full 20 points.

A total of 33 extras is something that Whitchurch need to reduce if they are to put pressure on teams.

An opening stand of 122 that took up 30 of the overs left the Feniton captain Mark Kingdon scratching his head. As he rang the changes with his bowlers he was unable to find a way through the resolute defences of Hall (70) and Woodrow (67).

Playing with a lot of patience, punishing anything wayward they took the game away from Feniton and lifted the morale of the home team. A couple of quick wickets followed with Nigel Barriball unlucky to be run out by a deflected straight drive from his partner. Billy Barriball showed considerable maturity as he held the rest of the innings together as Whitchurch moved towards a well-earned draw and a healthy 10 points.