Devon seconds E West

Paignton fourths v Whitchurch seconds

CAPTAIN Bob Powell took a depleted Whitchurch second XI to Paignton. With several last minute replacements the prospects didn't look too good. In the end Whitchurch put up a spirited fight and came away with their heads held high.

The home side elected to bat first on their artificial pitch. They were immediately in difficulties as youngster Dave Northey, bowling the first of two accurate and probing spells, removed the openers with fewer than 10 runs on the board. His final figures of 3-25 off nine overs a testament to a good temperament.

North (20) and Slough (41) settled the nerves of the home team but they had to work hard as the fielding of Whitchurch remained alert and energetic.

After 17 overs the home team were only on 36 and knew that a much bigger score was needed. In trying to accelerate a few wickets fell.

Three youngsters shared the wickets Tilsey (1-11), Webber (1-37) and Hall (2-30) as Whitchurch picked up five valuable bowling points.

The Paignton total of 156 was achievable but although two or three batsmen played themselves in no one went on to make a big score. Alford (11) and Webber (9) were steady at the start knowing that it would take application to reach the winning post.

Playing her first league match and coming in at number five Chris Glanville scored a creditable 11 and while she and Bob Powell (8) were together there was some hope in the away dressing room. Once they went only Ben Hodge (not out 13) showed any resistance as the Paignton bowlers, Wakeham with 4-11 being particularly devastating, picked off the tail and eventually romped home to a comfortable win.

n Future Whitchurch fixtures:  Saturday, Whitchurch firsts home to Upottery; seconds away to Shaldon; Sunday, Whitchurch ladies away to Torquay, home in re-arranged Hodge Cup; on Wednesday, Whitchurch v Cornwall Over 50s.