BEAMINSTER 197-8 (19pts) beat ASHMORE 151 (7pts) by 46 runs

BEAMINSTER’S remarkable form continued as they won their seventh game in a row at Ashmore.

Dave Persey was the hero after a fantastic all-round performance including 40 runs and three wickets.

Beaminster won the toss and decided to bat. Ross Baker (25) immediately went on the attack against the opening bowlers before the first change bowlers took crucial wickets including the dangerous Chris Park for 27.

Beaminster then lost five wickets for just 46 runs as Ashmore took control of the middle overs.

However, Leo Gurd (33) remained to play a calm and mature innings. He formed an excellent attacking partnerships with Dave Persey (40) and Rob Meech (25no) as Beaminster scored 81 runs in the last 10 overs to post a competitive total of 197-8 from 45 overs.

In reply, Ashmore’s top order struggled against some fine bowling from Persey who took three wickets including the crucial one of Lee Russell (14) after a brilliant diving caught and bowled.

Ashmore’s middle order gave the home side hope as the Beaminster fielder’s dropped several catches. However, after some tight bowling, the run-rate increased and the batsmen were forced to play their shots.

Wickets then tumbled as Nick Hollely (3-28) returned and Pete Bustin (2-7) mopped up the tail as Ashmore fell 46 runs short of their target after 42 overs.

The winner of the next game at home to Dorchester could decide which team is promoted to Division Two with champions Charlton Down.