Sidmouth thirds banked a 22-point haul from an empathic victory over South Devon at Newton Abbot.

After being put in, openers Overthrow and Sargent put on 72 before Overthrow fell just four runs short of a half century.

Henry Gater hit a quick fire 27 with two lengthy sixes and, after his departure Griffiths and Fowler opened their shoulders to power their sides into a commanding position.

Griffiths made his first men’s half century with a total of 84 including 14 fours and one six. Fowler made 50 runs in just as many balls, before unselfishly retiring hurt. Griffiths and Fowler put on a fourth wicket stand of 139.

Tom Counsell came and went with 20 runs including two sixes and Sidmouth declared on 286-5.

Alistair Bartlett and Tom Counsell opened the Sidmouth bowling with Bartlett sending down six overs for a very economical 21 runs and he claimed the wicket of one of the openers.

South Devon fought back, but in the post drinks session Sidmouth again took charge.

Harvey Sargent finally broke the productive home second wicket partnership with Henry Gater taking a fine catch at long off.

Gater then got passed the ball to mop up the tail end and did so, bowling four overs for just five runs and claiming four wickets, amongst them a hat-trick.

South Devon were bowled out for 170 with still six overs remaining.

On Saturday Sidmouth III travel to seventh placed Abbotskerswell.