Devon E

Yarcombe v Whitchurch

WHITCHURCH made the long journey to Yarcombe in horrible weather expecting to turn straight around and head home. However, a break in the weather allowed the game to start 20 minutes late with the hosts batting first.

Layard and Mitcham batted the conditions well until Mitcham was bowled by Towl.

After eight overs, Towl had also removed Martin and Whitchurch had a bonus point in the bag. At this point the rain returned and a further four overs were lost from the innings.

On the resumption Towl completed his spell with 3-22, removing the dangerous Layard for 26.

Billy Reed looked in fine form until he was brilliantly run out by a direct hit from Charlie Barriball with a throw from the boundary.

Charlie then chipped in with a couple of wickets, although Yarcombe continued to score freely, most notably Rich.

A hostile spell from Vernon (2-23) had Yarcombe tottering, but Rich marshalled the tail well and completed a deserved half century, bringing up the mark with his fourth six.

Billy Barriball (2-4) wrapped up the innings with Yarcombe dismissed for 160 with one over to go.

During the tea interval the rain fell heavier and harder. It soon became obvious that no further play would be possible and the captain's shook hands.

With all other games in the division failing even to start Whitchurch gained a valuable five points over nearest rivals Whimple.

Going into the last two matches of the season Whitchurch have a slight advantage but will need to perform at their best.

n Future fixtures: on Saturday Whitchurch first team are at home to Kentisbeare; on Sunday there is a friendly Plymouth Civil Service and Roborough while the ladies are away in a 20/20; on Wednesday the Wayfarers play a friendly against The Michaels Touring team.