Somerset Cricket League Division One

Bridgwater A 213-6 lost to Watchet 217-7 by three wickets

BRIDGWATER A captain Dan Andison’s unbeaten half-century wasn’t quite enough to seal victory for his side, as they went down by three wickets to Watchet on Saturday.

Andison (52no) was the mainstay of the Bridgwater innings to help them to 213-6 from their 45 overs, while Jon Adams (33) and S Butt (31) chipped in with good contributions.

But 86 from Watchet opener Matt Lovell proved to be a match-winning knock for the visitors, who edged home with two overs and three wickets to spare.

Jordan Boobyer (2-39) and John Hill (2-38) were the pick of the Bridgwater bowlers, while Abdullah Akhter, Dan Andison and S Butt picked up one wicket apiece – and despite Bridgwater eventually dismissing Lovell 14-short of his century, Watchet had enough to creep home.

Hill (28) and Adams got Bridgwater off to a strong start, before Skidmore (22) and Andison continued where the openers had left off.

Skidmore departed and was quickly followed by Akhter and Rose, both without scoring - but Butt (31) joined the skipper to carry their side to a competitive total.

Martin Strong (3-39) and Matt Lovell (2-41) did the majority of the damage in the Bridgwater innings, but a middle order fight back had ensured the hosts had runs on the board.

Pete Manley (10) fell early in the Watchet reply and was followed shortly after by Martyn Ketchen for 0.

Sparks (11) was the third wicket to fall, but an important fourth wicket partnership between Ryan Dellow (37) and Lovell, swung the game back in Watchet’s favour.

Both players fell in quick succession as Bridgwater looked to regain a foothold in the game, but Liam Woolgrove (18no) and Mark Bishop (8no) saw the visitors home in the 42nd over.