FILLEIGH have dropped back into the B Division bottom two after losing by 40 runs to Abbotskerswell.

Take out 57 from James Fulner and Richard Harmer’s 32 and there wasn’t a lot from the rest from Abbots early order as John Hickman (3-38) and James Campbell (4-41) got into them.

Abbots pulled out of their nosedive thanks to Connor Adams and the tail enders.

Adams made 57 not out off 44 balls and with support from Noah Tobias and Riccardo Small-Boyce put on 119 for the last three wickets in a final total of 241 all out.

That tail-end defiance ended up costing Filleigh, who were dismissed for 201 in reply.

Plenty of batsmen got settled – Jas Kalsi made 29, skipper Simon Prideaux 27 and Ryan Bowden but in the top half Justin Saker (57) really kicked on.

Tail-ender James Campbell made 23 in a losing cause for Filleigh before Tom Keily (3-46) brought proceedings to an end. There were three wickets for Adams and two for Tobias.

Filleigh had the consolation of maximum bonus points – five batting, five bowling – so the day wasn’t a complete write-off.

Prideaux wasn’t really consoled though and felt it was a game Filleigh allowed to slip through their fingers.

We created opportunities to win in both innings, but weren't able to take the chances,” said Prideaux.

“We had Abbots132 for seven with 14 overs left, but couldn't get the last three wickets, and they scored heavily in the powerplay at the end of their innings.

“Batting well at 120 odd for three with myself and Saker well set, I played a terrible shot and was caught.

“Saker got out quickly after and we couldn't find a partnership to take us closer/

“We also bowled 22 wides, which didn't help our cause.”