SANDFORD Cricket Club’s Second XI for the second week running played out an exciting game against Uplyme and Lyme Regis last Saturday, but on this occasion narrowly losing by just 5 runs.

U and LR won the toss and decided to bat with their middle order of Farrow (29), Lavin (43) and Magee (72) along with 41 extras (31 wides) guiding their team towards an eventual 45 over total of 225 for 7.

Only Ellie Bishop with 3-40 (8) was able to keep much control on the U and LR batters.

However, with Sandford losing their main two run getters early in proceedings, youngsters Ben Handley 40 (3 fours) and Joe Hopkins 31 (4 fours) went about trying to repair the damage.

Ben’s dismissal then saw three wickets fall cheaply and at 107 for 5 the writing appeared to be on the wall for the Sandford team.

However, a middle to late order resurgence led by Stevie Lyons 21 (4 fours), Andy Fry 25 (4 fours) and 14 from Archie Osborne before he had to retire hurt, saw Sandford recover to 195 for 8.

Enter last week’s heroes Ollie Knight 34no (4 fours) and Alfie Butterfield 5. as they once again put on what was to be a last wicket stand of 25 before Alfie was given out LBW with the score on 220.

With Archie unfortunately not able to return to the middle it meant Sandford lost by 5 runs, and dreaming of “what could have been” if he had been able to return.

This result consolidates the Seconds position of 3rd in C Division East, and with a trip to bottom club Bradninch and Kentisbeare 2nds next week with a 1pm start, their third position is looking safe as they have a 31 point advantage over the team in fourth position, with no chance of promotion.

Phil Matten