Confident, composed and efficient, Sidmouth CC proved far too strong for Cornwood CC last weekend and enter the latest round of fixtures in the Premier Division of the Tolchards Devon Cricket League in a great position.
Sidmouth travel to mid-table Exeter CC on Saturday and another victory could move them even closer to the top two of Heathcoat CC and Sandford CC, both of whom face awkward away games at Exmouth CC and Hatherleigh CC respectively.
Victory, and momentum, for Sidmouth is even more important, with a mouthwatering tie at Sandford looming large on July 31.
The latest win over Cornwood was set up by an impressive bowling display from the whole Sidmouth unit, with wickets spread evenly as the visitors were limited to 207 all out.
Matt Parker removed Cornwood opener Aaron Richards for 4, with Cameron Evans-Grainger taking the catch, but the visitors did then settle into a partnership of 55 before Dylan Hurst claimed the wicket of Jackson Thompson for 36.
Charlie Miles trapped Noah Carlisle lbw after he made a ponderous two runs from 23 balls, but Cornwood rallied again before Parker removed Ciaran Gray for 47.
An excellent partnership of 81 between Ben Beaumont (60) and Ryan Rickard (38) momentarily put Cornwood in a good position but the tail collapsed in spectacular fashion.
The final five batsmen managed just eight runs between them, with Parker ending on figures of 3-64 and Miles was superb in his 2-16 from 10 overs.
The Sidmouth reply suffered a worrying start, as opener Isaac Thomas was bowled first ball by Adam Goodliffe but that would be as good as it got for Cornwood.
Opener Alex Barrow rattled off a fine 82 not out and that was surpassed by his skipper Luke Bess, who finished with an imperious unbeaten 107 from 92 balls, securing a nine-wicket victory.
Sidmouth 2nd XI are continuing the feelgood factor, as they top C Division East following a 64-run victory at Whimple.
Tom Moore hit a brilliant 139 and Nick Mansfield 81 in a total of 296/9 for Sidmouth. Jack Rattenbury then took four wickets as Whimple were bowled out for 232.

Sidmouth Herald: Luke BessLuke Bess (Image: Pinnacle Photo Agency Ltd)