IN conditions that were far from ideal, the Tamar Evening League cup semi-final saw Whitchurch take on local rivals Tavistock.

Putting Tavistock into bat Whitchurch made the best use of the conditions. Aaron Churchill (13) hit a couple of lusty blows and got Tavistock off to a good start but that soon disappeared as Jez Stokes (four for 15) used his allotted five overs to good effect and ripped the heart out of the batting.

Within seven overs Tavistock were struggling on 30 for six.

They didn't fare any better in the second half of their innings as Hammy Kerswill took three for 13.

Only veteran John McGahey used his experience to eke out a valuable 11 runs. Sixty four all out was a meagre total.

Stephens (two for 11) ensured that the home side didn't have it their own way as Billy Barriball and Jack Newton were soon back in the pavilion.

Charlie Barriball scored a patient 34 and provided the backbone to an excellent reply.

Playing each ball on its merits he picked apart the best that Tavistock could offer.

A stirring victory over a strong side and the prospect of a cup final to come.

Future fixtures:-

Saturday 1st XI home to Tiverton; 2nd XI away to Abbotskerswell; Sunday touring side Palmers; ladies league away Topsham; Monday Theale & Tilehurst; Tuesday TEL Launceston away.