Devon seconds D West

Whitchurch seconds v

Cornwood fourths

THIS was a top of the table clash, although Cornwood were missing a few key players.

Whitchurch lost the toss again and batted first. The top order, which has been so reliable in recent weeks, failed to fire, as Whitchurch slumped to 28-3.

Alford (28) and Macrae (32) steadied the ship adding 64 for fourth wicket. The running between the wickets was ambitious and eventually brought the demise of Macrae.

Another good partnership was to come, as Powell (38) and Downham took advantage of the change bowling.

From 188-2 they added 88 for the sixth wicket. Whitchurch’s strong batting line up paying dividends. Downham completed a deserved half century until being deceived by R Griffiths for 52.

As Whitchurch pushed for more runs, the tail folded. Sam Griffiths with 4-13, as Whitchurch closed on 223-9. Top scorer was extras with 56.

The Whitchurch bowlers were soon on top limiting the Cornwood reply. Hall and Downham both bowling inspired spells taking three wickets apiece.

Hall struck first removing the prolific Goodliffe for just four, before Downham’s 3-15 which included the removal of Fitzpatrick for 15.

Hall was assisted by fine catches from Wallace and Webber. Indeed the Whitchurch fielding throughout was excellent.

Cornwood were 38-6 and seemingly out of it. Skipper Knight batted sensibly accumulating batting points. His 76 the only score of any resistance.

Knight and Tracey had frustrated Whitchurch adding 72 for the eighth wicket, until Prout struck.

Tamblin (2-16) then dismissed Knight and wrapped the match up with Whitchurch winning by 76 runs.