Devon Cricket Board - Heathcoat keep clear of drop zone

Heathcoat keep clear of drop zone

HEATHCOAT defeated ailing champions Exmouth by four wickets to keep some distance between them and the Premier Division drop zone.
Exmouth were almost all-conquering on their way to the Premier title last term, but a fourth defeat in five games prompted skipper Richard Baggs to concede afterwards there is no prospect of defending the crown.
Heathcoat were glad of the win as it keeps them ahead of local rivals Sandford, who are only nine points behind after beating Cornwood in the basement battle at Creedy Park.
Exmouth’s batting collapsed like a pack of cards under pressure from Jason Parr – he got the first three out for 13 on the board – followed by Matt Hague (2-19) and Qassim Adams (3-18) turning the screw.
David Lye made 19 and Andrew Buzza 23, but the best stand in a paltry total of 88 was only 24 and that wasn’t enough.
Exmouth then reduced Heathcoat to 21 for five in reply – Trevor Anning taking three for 18 and Ollie Dawe two for 19.
With Heathcoat on the rack it needed something special from skipper Sam Smith to save the day and he duly obliged.
Smith had a bit of luck – Exmouth’s catching let them down – but his 52 not out in 99 minutes saw Heathcoat to a priceless win.
Heathcoat are at home to Exeter this Saturday.

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