MICHAEL Lemmings conjured up a six-wicket haul as Bideford snatched a 20-run win at Dartington & Totnes.

The signs didn’t look too good for Bideford when D&T were 104 for two chasing 164 to win.

Lemmings made a big breakthough by trapping opener Harold Stevenson lbw for 22, ending a stand of 94 with Ed Verrall.

Verrall was next to go for 75 – bowled by Lemmings – and from them on the rot set in.

Lemmings went on to take six for 23 from nine overs as Darts collapsed to 143 all out.

On a depressing day for D&T skipper Stevenson and Verrall were the only batsmen to reach double figures.

Bideford were indebted to skipper Paul Heard for a top score of 46 in their total of 163 all out.

“We were inserted on a slow, low one which was hard to score on early in your innings,” said Heard.

“Once I was in I found the boundary a few times, then we had a collapse at the end with some brainless batting and were about 40 runs shy of what we should have had.

Modest partnerships were the order of the day for Bideford, who struggled against D&T spinners Chris Cook (4-21) and Harry Baxendale (31).

Lemmings (13) and Ji Eccles (12) helped add 28 for the last five wickets, which proved the difference between winning and losing a close game.

“A good win from a below-par performance by most I would say,” said Heard.

 “When Michael Lemmings came on he changed the game.

“Both sides were aided by lbw decisions but we managed to keep putting pressure on incoming batsmen and got over the line.

“It was good to get some momentum into a big game this Saturday against Ivybridge.”

Dartington & Totnes captain James Howrihane said the game was one that got away.

“It felt like we deserved the win, but luck doesn't really go with you when you are struggling,” he said.

“Harold Stevenson and Eddie Verrall batted really well and gave us a base we haven't had all season.

“It was just a shame the lower middle order couldn't see us home.”