Sidmouth III lost by the narrowest of margins when they went down by just two runs in their B Division East 2nd XI meeting with Exeter III.

Exeter batted first and the Sidmouth bowling, whilst not prolific in terms of taking wickets, did a good job keeping the run rate down and, after their 45 overs, Exeter had scored 193-4.

Jordan Fowler came on as second change and claimed two of the wickets to finish with excellent figures of 2-24 in seven overs. Graham Munday (1-27 from five overs) and Toby Seldon (1-39 in nine overs with four maidens), were the other wicket takers.

The run chase always looked as if it was on and, at 182-3, victory was close. However, the dismissal of John Goodwin was crucial, with the keeper/batsman caught for 22. With Graham Munday at the other end the pair of club stalwarts were guiding the thirds to victory when both fell in quick succession. Young Jordan Fowler was not out five at the close and Ben Johnson had yet to score when stumps were drawn with Sidmouth just two runs shy of the Exeter score!

On Saturday the third team, who sit rock bottom of the table having lost all five of the matches they have begun this season, travel to face second from bottom Upottery II. With Sidmouth already 27 points adrift, defeat would leave them a long way behind the rest!