CRICKET: Wayfarers crumble under Weymouth pressure

WEYMOUTH romped to their third win of the Premier One season with a resounding 175-run demolition of whipping boys Ferndown Wayfarers at Redlands.

After the game had been given the go ahead early in the day despite some heavy overnight rain, the hosts lost the toss and were asked to bat on their own wicket for what was the first time this season.

But it did not deter them as Jim Ryall made a well-constructed 64 at the top of the order and Will McKay produced 43 to ensure the visitors toiled in the sun.

They took the final Weymouth wicket with the last ball of the innings, as the hosts set Wayfarers a target of 219 to win.

And with that total to defend, the rampant Seasiders came out with hostility to mow through the Wayfarers’ order from the outset, reducing them to just 15-6.

The visitors soon crumbled to 43 all out in reply.

Ryall backed up his strong performance with the bat by claiming five victims behind the stumps, boasting three catches and two stumpings.

Sami Rathnayake was the pick of some extremely impressive Weymouth bowling figures, returning 4-22.

Seasiders’ skipper Womble told Echosport: “I was over the moon, you never bowl teams out that cheaply normally, especially in the Premier League.

“It was a good team effort but there were a few standout performances.

“Jim Ryall at the top of the order made a great 64 and so did Will McKay with 43.

“You can tell by the scorebook that everyone chipped in and to see that is pleasing. Sami Rathnayake also produced a big performance with the ball.

“We have said all season about chipping away and there were a few good knocks from people which is what we have been striving for.

“We have come a long way. Last year we found it really hard to get over the line and these three wins just show that if we stick at it and work hard we will be alright.

“I said on the opening day that if we kept that attitude we would be okay and that is what has happened. It is a really good place to be at the moment.”