By CONRAD SUTCLIFFE

NORTH Devon remain second in the A Division table thanks to a 25-run win over Budleigh Salterton in a high-scoring affair at Instow.

Richard Wold was the only one of North Devon’s top six not to cash in as the home side hoisted 262 for six in 50 overs.

Openers Ben Howe (54) and Dan Bowser (32) set the tone with a stand of 92; Jack Moore (60) and skipper Tom Popham (42) added another 82 and Moore with support from James Tyson (48) added another 56.

Budleigh’s Ed Doble had impressive figures of two for 20 from 10 overs when he bowled. Joel Murphy (10-1-32-0) gave little away.

Budleigh accepted the challenge to go for the runs with opener Harry Parkin anchoring the chase.

By the time Parkin was spun out for 65 by George McEndoo he had taken the score to 160 for three, with assistance from Theo Northover (27) and Tom Oxland (58).

Jack Moore (5-33) savaged the middle order as Budleigh lost four wickets for 22 runs. Although Doble (34) and Charles Parkin (25no) had a bash the momentum had gone and Budleigh finished on 237 for eight.

Popham was the first to admit his side had been in a game.

“We managed to dig out a win having been pushed all the way by Budleigh,” said Popham. 

“We were not at our best, particularly with the ball and we had to grind out the victory.

“These types of wins are vital in a promotion push, especially when the sides around us are winning as well. 

“Jack Moore again batted maturely to hold the innings together and allowed others to bat around him. He then backed it up with the ball to pick up five wickets and finish the game off. “