Third straight win gives Sandford fresh hope of holding on

Adrian Small about to hit the winning runs for Sandford against his old club Exmouth

SANDFORD moved within five points of Premier safety by inflicting a seven-wicket defeat on Exmouth.

Exmouth’s new captain Callum French made 35 and Billy Rudolph chipped in 39 before Exmouth were bowled out for 170. They lost their last five wickets for just 17 runs.

Chris Simpson (5-23) had his first five-wicket haul for Sandford since switching from B Division Shobrooke Park at the start of the season.

Freddie Filor (32) and Richard Foan (25) gave Sandford a start, leaving Faisal Iqbal (81no) and Adrian Small (24no) to tie up the loose ends.

For skipper Foan it was a mission accomplished as per the agenda.

“We bowled well and to our plans,” said Foan.

“Chris Simpson was the stand-out with the ball for us getting five wickets.

“He has bowled without luck this year. 

Sandford take on form side Plymouth this Saturday looking to for a fourth straight win that may take them past Bradninch in the fight to stay up.

On the challenge of the match, Foan said: “Plymouth are a dangerous side on their day but we are playing much better cricket then when we lost to them earlier in the season.”

Exmouth skipper French had no complaints about the size or manner of the defeat.

 “The best team won,” said French.

“Sandford bowled well to restrict us and we lost wickets at key times. 

“I was pleased with the way Billy Rudolph, Luke Davies and George Greenway batted in the middle.

“Sandford held their chances and put the pressure on well.”

“Now we need to regroup for Bradninch this Saturday.”