Devon seconds D West

Whitchurch seconds v Ipplepen seconds

WHITCHURCH were understrength for the top of the table clash with ‘Pens. As a result, when winning the toss skipper Webber asked the visitors to bat first, despite them being in the runs of late.

Alsop and Thomas made light of the drizzle and made good progress with only the odd maiden slowing down their progress. Both completed chanceless half centuries as Whitchurch’s bowlers toiled with the wet ball.

The partnership had reached 154 when Downham got the breakthrough – Alsop departing for 54. Ipplepen then lost wickets at regular intervals.

Whitchurch’s bowlers stuck to their task well. Webber was supported in the field with catches from Downham, Mckenzie and Prout.

Thomas completed his maiden century before top edging Ord. Prout taking a running catch in the deep.

Where 300 looked likely, Ipplepen closed on 249-9. Webber undoubtedly the pick of the bowlers with 6-49.

A lack of batting depth meant that the target was always likely to be too many, but points would be crucial.

Dunne and Alford made a steady start until Borlase struck twice in three balls. On both occasions finding the edge of the bat for Penrice to take the catch behind.

Resistance from the middle order was in short supply as Whitchurch slumped to 28 -5. Credicott (22) and Ord (18) added 35, but a run out meant the beginning of the end.

Whitchurch were dismissed for 85 and succumbing to their second heavy defeat in as many weeks.

Ipplepen thirds beat Whitchurch seconds by 164 runs.