SANDFORD put a disappointing week behind them to get off the mark in the Premier Division with a two-wicket win at Torquay.

Sandford were on the wrong end of an 89-run drubbing by Exeter in their opening league encounter, hardly the start they wanted.

And the team management learned in midweek that South African all-rounder Ferisco Adams had broken an ankle playing for Boland and won’t be coming over as Sandford’s overseas player after all.

Everyone at Creedy Park needed a lift and it was provided by chasing 212 to win at Torquay with more than five overs to spare.

Torquay were grateful to Tom Drake for an anchorman knock of 69 not out off 103 balls for reaching 211 for eight in their 50 overs.

Drake and Tim Western (28) put on 67 for the sixth wicket to get Torquay moving.

Wickets were shared with Trevor Anning taking three for 42 in two spells and Harrison Jones claiming two for 50. Chris Jelley (1-24 off 10) gave Torquay little to hit.

Sandford’s run chase looked like crashing into a ditch as they went from 103 for two when Sandy Allen (42) got out, to 162 for seven then 177 for eight.  Neil Bettis (39) was among the casualties picked off by Torquay’s man of the match Drake (4-35).

Chris Simpson (17no) and Pete Steer (21no) took no risks knocking off the 35 runs needed to win the game.

Winning skipper Foan said: “It was great to get the first win, but we made it hard work.

“Everyone contributed and showed the importance of having strength in depth.

“Simmo and Steery showed a few of the top order that a bit of patience and a cool head gets you over the line.” 

Sandford are at home to early pacesetters Paignton this Saturday.