EXMOUTH went 27 points clear at the top of the A Division table after inflicting an eight-wicket defeat on visiting Thorverton.

Ali Chilcott (64) and Tom Diamond (84) were Thorverton’s main run getters in a respectable total of 259 for nine. Their stand of 117 for the second wicket was topped-up by Dan Robbins (20) and 33 extras.

Exmouth captain Lawrence Greenway used eight bowlers to put a brake on Thorverton. Only Cam Kidd, George Greenway and Dan Pyle took more than one wicket. 

Jason Niemand struck an unbeaten 145 at the top of the order to put Exmouth on the road to victory. 

After Niemand put on 70 for the first wicket with James Horler (37), and Pyle came and went for 10, Fin Marks stoppered-up one end for 58 not out during an unbroken partnership of 168 for the third wicket.

It was Niemand’s third league ton of the season so far, and takes his batting average to 169.25, which is one of the reasons why Exmouth (144pts) are out in front of second-placed Torquay (117) by 27 points. Torquay did themselves no favours by losing to Abbotskerswell.

Greenway said Thorverton were no push-over, but his side did not hit their straps until well into the game.

“Thorverton put us under pressure with the bat and were comfortably the most proactive team we have played against,” said Greenway.

“That being said, we fielded poorly and weren't really at it for the first 30 overs. 

“We pegged it back well in the last 20 and did well to restrict Thorverton to what we felt was just about a par score. 

“Then Jason did what Jason does: played a sublime innings. Fin Marks supported him really well with a great half-century and they both made a tricky chase very comfortable.”

Even when you are as far ahead as Exmouth are there is always room for improvement.

“Lots to improve on performance and attitude-wise, with the ball and in the field,” said Greenway.

Jake Choules, the Thorverton captain, won’t be losing too much sleep about this particular result.

“We always knew it would be tough at Exmouth so we had nothing to lose,” said Choules.

“I felt we gave a decent account of ourselves against a really good side. 

“We were set for more than 260 at one stage so it was a shame not to get nearer to 300, but if you take away their overseas we would've had a great chance of defending it. 

“I don't think we did too much wrong in the field, but it really was a top-quality knock by Jason.”

Thorverton play winless Seaton at home this Saturday when they will be hoping to bounce back.