A BRAVE fightback by Ilminster’s away team was not enough to secure victory over Clarrie Dunbar in the National Double Rink on Saturday.

Peter Mattravers’ quartet recovered from a 22-4 deficit to lose just 22-20 after picking up 16 shots on the last five ends.

But John Ridout’s home rink, who were holding their own for much of the match, dropped a seven near the end to lose 21-19.

Ilminster therefore lost 43-39 overall.

Scores: home: Kevin Hamilton, Neil Rowe, Ian Lightfoot and John Ridout 19, T Perkins 21; away: Gerry Morris, Alan Holt, Jason Miles and Peter Mattravers 20, R Francis 22.

Also on Saturday Ilminster played at home in a three rink mixed Somerset and Devon League match against the current league leaders Taunton Deane.

Ilminster lost by six shots in a very tight and competitive match.

Scores: Helen Collins, Eddie Hadfield, Rodney Parkin and Lawrence Symes 16, R Dezelle 21; Val Dargue, Dave Collins, Heather Sims and Barry Sims 15, B Cridland 16.

On Sunday South Petherton were the visitors for a three rink friendly match.

After an enjoyable game South Petherton won by 2 rinks to 1 and by 66-57.

Scores: Val Dargue, Arthur Callighan, Roy Orme and June Checketts 29, Tony Peterson 16; Dave Wallis, Owen Mico, Norma Pugh and David Pugh 17, Peter Hutchings 19; Joyce Mico, Gary Riste, Brian Welch and Dave Cox 11, Lawrence Symes 31.