SANDFORD Fourths’ recent good results came to an end last Saturday when they travelled to Culmstock Seconds.

The problem for a fourth team is that they will always be at the end of the “food chain”. So with a lot of players unavailable, the team skipper Jason Matten put out, had very little resemblance to those that had performed well in recent weeks.

Saying that, remarkably, having won the toss and deciding to field, Sandford relegated their hosts to an early eight for four, and thoughts of another amazing win must have been foremost in their minds, as opening bowlers 14-year-old Ollie Harding and 15-year-old Rebecca Savory went to town demolishing the early order.

However, once they had to come off, the remaining bowlers couldn't keep the pressure on, and eight for four became 104 for five, then 185 for six and eventually 201 for six when Culmstock's innings was brought to a close after their 40 overs.

For the home team, their innings was dominated by Bruce Perry. He batted throughout most of the innings. In the end he finished on 104no (17 fours and a six) when time was called. He was ably supported by initially Adam Rimell 25 (four fours) and latterly Gabe Tonkin 35 (five fours and a six), as they guided their team to maximum batting points, which looked highly unlikely early on.

Ollie finished with an excellent two-25 (eight) and Rebecca two-32 (eight), but with little other support from their teammates.

Sandford's reply never really got going, and certainly not enough to threaten a win, as wickets fell steadily. Only veteran Danny Knight 66 (seven fours, two sixes) hung around long enough to cause any discomfort for the home team, and eventually the fourths were bowled out for 120 after 33.3 overs to lose by 81 runs.

Playing his first game for many years for Sandford, Matt Uren suffered a serious leg muscle injury and had to retire. We wish him well in his recovery in time to for the beginning of the football season, where he is one of Devon's more experienced officials as he is gradually working his way up the football league pyramid.

For the home team Adam Rimell two-three (five), and Jack Palmer three-35 (6.3) were the most successful bowlers.

This Saturday the Fourths don't have a game as it is their turn to be the ninth team, which means one team each week in H Division East doesn't have a game.

Phil Matten