Fovant 178 bt Cerne Valley 129

by 49 runs

(Nationwide Sun Awnings

Dorset League Division III)

VISITING newly promoted Cerne Valley for the first time, Fovant were invited to open the batting under the stern gaze of the chalk giant.

An early wicket was lost but a partnership between Mike Thatcher, 86, and Sean White, 44, put the visitors in a strong position at 151-1, but the middle order failed to capitalise and inexplicably lost the last eight wickets for 27 runs.

Former Redlynch star Andy Mercer bowled ten overs for 26 and Simon Green took 3-48.

Undaunted Fovant took to the field with enthusiasm and Steve Smith bowled his 12 overs to finish with 1-32.

Sean White took 3-33 and Andy Nuttall 4-34.

Mark Dunning made a stubborn 25 and Martin Whitelock, 29, but Fovant retained their composure.

They clinched victory by 49 runs to claim 19 league points.