Last season’s highly successful inaugural league campaign for Ottery St Mary 3rd XI was characterised by regular contributions from many of the club’s emerging youngsters but, in stark contrast, victory in the opening fixture of the 2015 season hinged upon the efforts of a number of the Salston Field outfit’s old guard, writes Ian Townsend.

After visitors, Halberton & Sampford Peverell were given a useful 44-run start in 10 overs by Adrian Hills (22) and Brian Chillcott (24), regular wickets fell as the Mid-Devon side slipped to 76-6. Henry Mutter (3-20) and Guy Peters (3-21) delivered excellent spells, the latter playing in only his second ever league game. Luke Broomfield (29) and Nick Roud pulled things around with a solid 48-run stand in 13 overs before vastly experienced all-rounder Rob Bradshaw-Smith blew away the tail to claim 3-3. Tom Peters turned in an excellent display behind the stumps as the visitors were hustled out for an inadequate-looking 133.

As the Otters replied, youngster, Jack Ellison and veteran opener Richard Lock (28) compiled a solid 38-run opening partnership. However, the Otters soon found themselves struggling at 73-5 before skipper, John Tierney and Sam Brook posted an excellent, unbroken 60-run stand in 10 overs to take the home side to victory. Brook provided solid support as Tierney teed off in typical fashion to blast an unbeaten 51 (seven fours & two sixes) from 42 balls faced.

Halberton & Sampford Peverell 133 (L.Broomfield 29, B.Chillcott 24, A.Hills 22, R.Bradshaw-Smith 3-3, G.Mutter 3-20, G.Peters 3-21) Ottery St Mary 3rd XI 134-5 (J.Tierney 51*, R.Lock 28, K.Budgell 2-20, B.Chillcott 2-34). Ottery St Mary (18pts) bt Halberton (4pts) by 5 wkts.