Every game's a cup final now says Torquay skipper Yau

Matt Cooke - welcome return to form for the Sidmouth batsman in the win over Torquay

TORQUAY remain too close for comfort to the Premier drop slots following a 99-run defeat by Sidmouth.

Sidmouth made 218 for seven in their 50 overs – county captain and opener Josh Bess making a top score of 64.

Torquay were all out for 119 in reply, which was more than looked likely when they were 37 for five.

Defeat leaves Torquay third from bottom, just a point clear of the relegation berths with a must win game against Exeter this Saturday.

Exeter are the team immediately below Torquay so all points earned this Saturday are worth double in the grand scheme of things.

Defending champs Sidmouth, who have already given up on winning the title this year, sit fourth in the week 14 table.

Bess and Liam Lews (27) put on 51 for the fourth wicket  to get Sidmouth moving after a slow start against seamers Joe Thompson and Kazi Szymanski.

Matt Cooke rediscovered some form with 48 down the order after a run of mishaps opening up.

Scott Barlow (4-24) had three of the wickets to fall in Torquay’s running total of 37 for five.

Skipper Justin Yau (24) then James McMurray (32) hung round at one end but wickets kept falling at the other.

Barlow retuned to remove McMurray and with Charlie Miles spinning out three for 17 in 10 Torquay were all out with four overs to go.

Yau said Torquay have no room for error now.

“We have a big few weeks coming up and will treat each one like a final,” said Yau.

“On the loss to Sidmouth, Yau said: “We had a poor day and struggled throughout our batting innings.

“Sidmouth batted well but the total didn't feel out of reach and it was a shame we got off to the start we did in pursuit of the total.

“James McMurray batted well for his 32 but we lacked the fight and determination build an innings.”