HATHERLEIGH eased their relegation fears with an unexpected 141-run win at Budleigh Salterton.

Budleigh were second from top going into the game – and Hatherleigh third from bottom – so the outcome was a surprise.

Opener Matt Thomas carried his bat for 162 – his second league ton of the season – as Hatherleigh amassed 273 for six. Danny Forrester made 36 and Charlie Nielson 27 having been called up late from the 2nd XI.

Budleigh were all out for 132 in reply, no one making more than youngster Ben Phillips (39).

Jack Cherrington took four Budleigh wickets for 41 runs and Thomas capped a man-of-the-match performance with three for 13.

“It was our most complete performance of the seasonm led by one of the best hundreds I've seen,” said Hatherleigh captain Mark Lake.

“We put real pressure on with the ball, they couldn't get away and wickets came.

“Hopefully this sets us up now for the rest of the season.”

Hatherleigh reach the halfway stage this Saturday with a home game against Lewdown.