WEYMOUTH SECONDS 138-8 (4pts) lost to CHRISTCHURCH 139-3 (19pts) by seven wickets

NOT even a half-century from Jonny Armfield could prevent Weymouth Seconds falling to an 11th defeat of the Dorset League Division Two campaign.

The number three batsman plundered 60 of his side’s 138 runs at Redlands but opponents Christchurch proved up to the task in reply and surpassed their target with seven wickets and 14 overs to spare.

The rock-bottom hosts had done remarkably well to even reach that score after four quick wickets left them staring down the barrel at 17-4.

Armfield performed his own rescue act before skipper Michael Pearce (22) and Ryan Sers (19 not out) added useful knocks lower down the order.

But their efforts proved in vain as the visitors completed the chase with relative ease.

Pearce, whose side are already preparing for life in Division Three, said: “In summary we were beaten by a good side.

“We had the worst of the conditions as we lost the toss on a damp wicket, but we recovered well from 17-4.

“Jon Armfield was a class apart with his knock of 60 and despite taking some early wickets, Christchurch won with some ease.”

After losing the toss and being inserted in tricky conditions, the Seasiders were soon in real danger as L Bowater (3-39) and J Cross (2-18) made early inroads.

Armfield though, steadied the ship with a fine display at the crease.

And together with the lower-order contributions of Pearce and Sers, Weymouth were able to escape with a respectable total.

The home side then kept hope alive by claiming two quick wickets in Christchurch’s reply.

However, following the removal of the third wicket, with 60 runs on the board, B Rayner (36 not out) and R Dear (40 not out) stood firm to lead the East Dorset outfit to victory.

The Seasiders make the short trip to the Rec this Saturday for a clash with their Dorchester counterparts.