They had to win the game, they were expected to win the game and, after an almighty scare, Sidmouth did win the game at lowly Plympton in the Premier Division of the Tolchards Devon Cricket League.

The victory put Sidmouth to within 15 points of leaders Sandford in another gripping end to the cricket campaign and a crucial, patient 38 from captain Luke Bess provided a pivot in an all-out score of 186.

Sam Elstone (33), Taylor Ingham-Hill (26) and Jamie Baird (32) also played an important role for Sidmouth but it was still a manageable target for Plympton, who are fighting against the drop.

Tom Simmons and Matt Parker removed the home openers but a superb unbeaten 79 from Elliot Hamilton threatened to inflict a surprise loss on Sidmouth. Thankfully, the bowlers kept chipping away with wickets and Plympton fell three runs short on 183-9, keeping Sidmouth in the title race.