Devon Cricket Board - Under 13 v Somerset Under 13's

Under 13 v Somerset Under 13's

Somerset won the local County Under 13 derby in a last ball thriller at Shobrooke Park. Chasing 164 for victory, the Somerset youngsters snatched victory from the jaws of defeat with some cameo performances from their lower order.

Earlier Devon had batted well on a fast track, but a slow outfield. 164 on another day would have been worth in excess of 200. The major contributors were opener Max Mejner (34) James Degg (24) and Jonty Walliker (25). Sam Taylor (13*) and Sam Carpenter (19) upped the run rate in the final overs to set a good score.

Somerset bowled well, with opener Walsh collecting 4 wickets for his efforts. His pace was too much to handle as he bowled bouncers and sharp deliveries throughout his 8 over spell. Supporting him at the other end was the spinner Clark who put the brakes on and bowled with good control, ending with figures of 8-2-13-1.

The Somerset innings was given a 'bump start' with a few too many wides provided by the Devon openers early on. But, once the radar was turned on Devon began to bowl with control and purpose.

Spin had been difficult to put away in the first innings and the second was no different. Oliver Robinson, Sam Carpenter and James Degg all bowling well. Carpenter (8-019-1) and Degg (4-0-11-3) the pick of the Devon bowlers.

The Sky Sports WASP would have been working overtime in the last 10 overs of this match! At 99 for 7 Devon looked in control. At 146 for 8 Somerset looked in control. However, with 6 ball remaining and 11 runs to win, the game was in the balance. Some good running and one lusty blow left Somerset needing 2 to win off the last ball. A cover drive and two runs later the victory was Somerset's.

This game was a great advert for Youth Cricket. Both sides played well and were evenly matched. Winning is a great experience, however losing is also a very valuable experience at times. This was such an occasion. Winning and loosing are something that should be shared by every player. In pressure situations, that don't go your way, it can be easy to blame yourself or others. Good players and good teams share the result, move on and learn.

There are very few nicer grounds than Shobrooke Park on a sunny day, and our thanks go to them for hosting us and providing an excellent wicket. Also, many thanks to our two umpires, Derek Taylor & Nick Forbes for their officiating.

Devon 163-7 (Max Mejner 34, James Degg 36, Jonty Walliker 25).

Somerset 164-8 (James Degg 3-11, Sam Carpenter 1-19). Full Scorecard

DCB Ltd, University of Exeter Sports Hall, Stocker Road, Exeter, Devon EX4 4QN Company Registration Number: 7024773