SANDFORD Cricket Club’s Third XI continued their recent run of good form when they easily beat local rivals Cheriton Fitzpaine by six wickets at Creedy Park last Saturday.

Batting first, Cheriton Fitzpaine crawled their way to 143 for nine in their 40 overs led by skipper Andy Wreford with a good solid knock of 60 (eight fours and a six), but he lacked support to enable his side to achieve a bigger target.

For Sandford there were two wickets apiece for Glyn Baker again 2-27 (8) – he’s having a wonderful season leading the attack - Ben Clement 2-13 (5.5) and Alfie Butterfield (2-15 (8).

Skipper Alex Stevens 42 (seven fours) led the response for the home team with a dominant innings, well supported by Ben Clement with a remarkably mature 51 (eight fours, two sixes). Together they broke the back of the run chase with a second wicket stand of 70 in double quick time.

At just 14 years of age, Jonno Handley guided his team to a well deserved victory with 31 not out, including seven fours, as Sandford reached 146 for four in only 24.1 overs.

This 19 point victory moved Sandford to the top of C Division Central as former leaders North Molton had their day off, as one team has to each week.

Whether the Thirds achieve the promotion they seek could well depend upon their result against North Molton when the two teams meet again on Saturday, August 2 at North Molton.

Next Saturday the Thirds travel to Paignton to play third placed Paignton Fourths looking to consolidate their position with a 1pm start.

Phil Matten