BIDEFORD skipper Paul Heard was glad on more than one level to get the season up and running with a seven-wicket win over Tavistock.

For it wasn’t just winning but who they beat and how that pleased the new Bideford captain.

“We have struggled for the past couple of years to beat Tavistock, so very happy,” said Heard.

“Starting on the front foot is a positive sign that we've learnt from last year.”

Bideford lost 10 on the bounce at the start of last season, which inevitably ended in relegation.

Tavistock were all out for 120 at Westward Ho with Aaron Churchill top scoring on 24.

Wickets fell steadily with the first five all out for 79 on the board.

Among the casualties was overseas player Dalton Kannemeyer, who was helped off with what looked like a ruptured Achilles tendon.

“It looks like his ankle in knackered and he could be out for the season – which is a huge blow,” said skipper Shaun Daymond.

Bideford shared the wicket-taking round with two each for Fred King, Paul Heard and Mike Lemming at the end.

“If we cut down on extras it could have been under 100 but for a first league game the bowlers did what was required,” said Heard.

Bideford got an 86-run start through James Ford (59) and Tom Brend (22) and never looked back.

Home skipper Heard clouted Tavvy’s James McGahey for six to win it in his unbeaten 29.

“The opening partnership did a fantastic job,” said Heard.

“Tom Brend played the anchoring role but couldn't quite see it through.

“For a 17-year-old opening for the first time, he looked unfazed.” 

Tavistock skipper Daymond had very few complaints. 

“Bideford bowled very well with the new ball and were consistent.

“The wicket was a decent track. we just didn't bat very well at all. 

“In return we bowled to loosely and didn't put pressure on early with a couple of wickets. 

“had we got a few key players early then could of been different. 

“It was nice to get back on the pitch and wer ae looking forward to putting some points on the board against Plymstock this Saturday.”