BOURNEMOUTH THIRDS 157 (4pts) lost to BEAMINSTER 160-3 (20pts) by 7 wickets

BEAMINSTER easily picked up the six points they required to guarantee their place in County Division Two for next season.

The day started well for them as they won the toss and decided to field first against a mid-table Bournemouth Thirds side.

Two early wickets taken by Ross Baker left the hosts struggling on 23-2.

Although Bournemouth recovered, wickets fell regularly as Beaminster’s five seam bowlers bowled short but effective spells.

Wickets were shared between Adam Herring (3-36), Terry Field (1-28), Dave Persey (3-30) and Baker (3-23).

Beaminster were delighted to gain full bowling points as Bournemouth were dismissed in the penultimate over for 157.

Although Beaminster’s opening batsmen started tentatively, they successfully negotiated the opening overs and then accelerated the scoring.

Dan Hillier returned to form with an aggressive 36 before being caught behind with the score on 71.

At the other end, Chris Lamb anchored the innings as he made a patient 54.

Batting at three, skipper Baker (51no) hit a succession of boundaries as Beaminster seized control of the game.

Two further wickets were lost before Baker reached his half-century and Beaminster reached their target in the 31st over to complete a seven-wicket victory.

Beaminster’s final match of the season is at home against Wimborne & Colehill Thirds on Saturday.