MATCH of the day in the Francis Clark Devon League Premier Division tomorrow sees third-placed Sidmouth host table-topping North Devon, writes John Goodwin.

The Instow side were runners-up to Sidmouth last season and have strengthened their squad this term. This match, and the following weeks’ games against Exmouth and Budleigh Salterton, will give a good indication in whose cabinet the silverware will reside in come the autumn.

Sidmouth took 19 points from victory over Plympton last Saturday to stay in touch with the early season pacesetters.

They dismissed the home side for 135 and lost five wickets completing their win, Saj Patidar guiding the side home after a wobble when two wickets fell at 112.

Will Murray won the toss and brought himself on to bowl after 10 overs to take the first wicket with his fifth ball.

Neil Hancock struck twice as the score passed 40, Anthony Griffiths catching both victims, and from then, Plympton were unable to gain any impetus.

Murray had eight maidens in his 15-over quota to finish with 3-30 while Hancock had 4-41, splitting his 15 overs into two spells.

Miles Dalton took 3-26 and, while the total suggests an efficient bowling performance, 19 wides were conceded.

Sidmouth's reply had 26 on the board when openers Anthony Griffiths and Josh Bess were parted, the latter looking unusually subdued in making five before being caught.

Griffiths followed five runs later but a 56-run stand between Ben Gledhill and Neil Hancock prevented Plympton taking the initiative.

Hancock struck four fours and a six making 36 as Gledhill played a more watchful role.

Gledhill was fourth man out at 112 for 19 to be followed next ball by Nick Gingell.

Patidar, promoted from the 2nd XI, calmed the nerves with 25 and Will Gater ended the match with a couple of boundaries.