STALBRIDGE III 130 (6pts) lost to WEYMOUTH II 167-7 (19pts) by 37 runs

THE reformed Weymouth second XI started their season with a victory in a competitive away match against a resolute Stalbridge side.

Weymouth were hit with the early loss of one player who had to pull out just before the game started, leaving the side with just 10 men, six of whom were 15-years-old or younger.

Losing the toss, the Seasiders were asked to bat on a damp pitch which offered plenty for the home bowlers.

However, openers Tony Quayle and Jack Taylor made light work of the conditions and made a confident century stand before Quayle was caught for a classy 53.

Teenagers Tom Anderson, 13, and Ollie Gordon, 14, were next in but departed quickly before Ben Hunter, also 14, reached double figures in support of Taylor, who was very comfortable at the crease.

With Hunter departing with less than 10 overs left, it was down to the experienced duo of Andy Anderson and captain Pete Gordon to strike a few boundaries and bring the Weymouth score up to 167-7 at the close.

Taylor was eventually out last ball for 46 – which was a brilliant effort to almost carry his bat in his first ever innings for the seniors.

In reply, Stalbridge faced Weymouth opening bowlers Luke Carrington and Tom Anderson, who both bowled aggressively and economically to put immediate pressure on the home side.

Both bowlers took a wicket in their opening spells and set the tone for the other Weymouth bowlers to follow.

Next up was Ben Hunter who took one wicket and Taylor, who impressed everyone taking 4-21 in six overs.

Captain Pete Gordon bowled well without taking a wicket but, supported by some excellent fielding from Josh Cardiff and Josh Hickman, the home side were always well behind the required run rate.

Veteran Andy Anderson came on for the final few overs and cleaned up the last two batsmen to leave Stalbridge all out for 130, giving Weymouth the victory.

The Seasiders’ next game is home to Winton and nets will be held at Wey Valley School on Thursdays at 6pm – any new

players are welcome to come along.