Tim Piper, whose patient 47 put Bradninch & Kentisbeare in a strong position against Sidmouth<br>credit: Conrad Sutcliffe - no re-use without copyright owner's consent

BRADNINCH & Kentisbeare held on for a three-run win over Sidmouth in a Tolchards DCL Premier Division game affected by the weather.

Tim Piper got his head down to make a studious 47 from 88 balls as B&K got as far as 158 for seven in 35 overs.

Sidmouth were set 153 to win in the same time after checking with Duckworth-Lewis – and came-up short on 149 for seven.

Victory moved B&K up to third in the latest table, where they trail Sandford and Cornwood.

Piper’s marathon innings – he was the last man out on 133 – was instrumental in winning the match.

There were no sizeable partnerships, other than one of 35 with Theo Lamey (20) and 42 with Jonathan Triner (34).Sam Elstone – Sidmouth's top scorer

Gary Chappell, the B&K captain, made 21 not out after Piper’s demise to George Addy, whose left arm spin brought him four wickets for 37 runs. Tom Hodgson picked-up two for 13.

Sam Elstone, one of Sidmouth’s openers, followed Piper’s example by batting on and on for an undefeated 70.

Luke Beaufort (22) and Jamie Baird (19) chipped in, but frugal bowling from Yuvraj Singh and Chappell kept Sidmouth fractionally behind the clock and it was over and out on 149 for seven.

Chappell said despite the low scores it was a ‘really good game of cricket’ that his side worked hard to win.

“It was a bad toss to lose as we were up against it with the weather,” said Chappell.

“But credit to ‘Pipes’ for anchoring it and the young lads Theo and Jon for stepping up and getting us to a score.

“We bowled and fielded really well with a wet ball. Bar a superb innings from Sam Elstone, it would've been a comfortable win.”

Taylor Ingham-Hill, who deputised as Sidmouth’s captain in the absence of Luke Bess, said weather was a factor in the outcome, but not the only one.

"The weather could have benefited either team, but Bradninch & Kentisbeare came out after the delay stronger,” he said.

“Batting wise, Sam Elstone showed how to bat on a very difficult pitch; we just needed someone to support him.

“Lots of things to improve on for this week, but the signs are definitely positive with such a young team.”