Devon C West

Yelverton Bohemians firsts v Bridestowe firsts

THE Yelverton Bohemians first XI were beaten by seven wickets at home against Bridestowe thanks to a strong bowling display from the visitors.

There was plenty of action in the buildup to the game, as the home players covered up and cleared debris from a large fallen tree at the far end of the ground.

The boundary had to be shortened ever so slightly but luckily the obstacle did not prevent the game being played.

Yelverton won the toss and decided to bat first. However, Bridestowe bowled well on a tricky wicket and put the Bohemians under pressure right from the start.

Chris Lavis (4-35) bowled a devastating opening spell which removed most of the Yelverton top order.

Yelverton were 11-3, but knocks from Rich Townsend (20) and Anis Zubair (21) helped get the score up to 59-5. This minor recovery was halted by two quick wickets from spinner Alex Jopling (4-14). The Bridestowe leg-break bowler had a great day, turning the ball considerably and finding the right areas to cause some serious trouble for the batsman.

Jamie Cooper (29) top scored for Yelverton batting at nine. He helped get the score up from 59-7 to 103-9, while partners Rob Grove (6) and James Casey (5) consolidated at the other end.

Yelverton were eventually bowled out for 108 in the 33rd over.

Bridestowe’s chase never looked in any doubt thanks to a solid opening stand of 57 n more than halfway to the target.

James Casey (2-19) got the breakthrough when Gary Sizmur (20) chipped up an easy catch, but the visitors were already well on their way.

James Ewen (51) and Jack Hatton (15) kept their foot on the accelerator for the visitors, then fell in quick succession, both caught at slip by Dan Cooper with the score on 94. However, Brandon Horn (14 not out) helped Bridestowe complete the run chase in the 18th over just three wickets down.