Back

STOKE Gabriel hoisted the Aaron Printers Narracott Cup for the first time on Friday night when they eased to a five-wicket win with time to spare over Paignton.

   Paignton, who had home advantage in the final, posted 130 for seven in 15 eight-ball overs, which was probably around par for the course in the conditions.

   But a rumbustious knock of 70 from Robert Baker put Stoke on course for a victory they achieved with two overs to spare.

   Paignton's total was largely constructed around a stand of 69 between opener Richard Cooper, who hit six fours in his 48, and Scott Baldry (31).

   Cooper was the last man out on 111 when he was caught having a swing at Jamie Day (3-32). No one else made double figures.

   Acting captain Steve Tolley, who was standing in for the injured Neil Robinson, was an early casualty when Stoke batted – caught by opposite number Mark Ashworth having a go at Mark Gilmour.

   Billy Alcock (12) and Baker added 48 for the next wicket in a stand that ended when Alcock was brilliantly caught by Cooper at short extra-cover.

   Alcock have his drive everything he had, but Cooper simply reached up and plucked the ball out of the gathering gloom as it was about to go past him. Alcock wasn' the only one who couldn't believe he was out!

   Baker, who had already warmed up with some big blows over mid-wicket, then took centre stage as Stoke made rapid progress towards their target.

   There was a minor hiccough when Dave Bolland and Day both fell close together to Rob Shergold (2-25), but the writing was on the wall and Paignton knew it.

   Baker, who made his 70 off just 40 balls with five sixes and four fours, was out with 16 needed when Mark Gilmour bowled him pretty comprehensively.

   Mark Newman (19no) and Mark Jackson (8no) took Stoke the rest of the way there.

   The trophy was handed over by former cup winner and ex-Babbacombe player Martin Passmore, whose Copy.Shop2 business at Castle Circus, Torquay is part of the Aaron Printers company.

   Man of the match was an easy decision for Herald Express cricket correspondent, who awarded the Ted Dickinson Trophy to Robert Baker.