PLYMSTOCK bounced back from the defeat by Ivybridge that cost them the B Division leadership with seven-wicket win at Ottery that put them back on top.

While Plymstock were chasing 192 to win on the Salston Field, Ivybridge were surrendering their unbeaten record at Bideford.

With only 10 points between the top three – Bideford are the other members of the triumvirate – the promotion race is wide open going into the second half of the season.

Ottery posted 191 for seven in a game reduced to 40 overs a side due to rain.

Dan Flower (37) and Billy Rudolph got the Otters up to 71 for one, then wickets fell in a hurry to Ian Whalley (2-22) and Ayed Ali (3-24),

Jodie Clements (21) stablised one end, but Ottery declined further to 108 for six with Seb Jordan and Bronte Bess among the wickets.

A stand of 70 for the seventh wicket between skipper Rob Crabb (42no) and former Devon all-rounder John Tierney (25) lifted Ottery in the last 10 overs.

Plymstock lost Jordan at 23, but made serene progress to 91 for two with Jason Williams (38) and Morgan Parkinson (35) waiting for the bad ball to come along.

Williams and Parkinson were both dispatched by Matt Reed in a running total of 128 for three.

Jack Horton (48no) and Bess (39no) saw Plymstock home without further incident and with more than five overs to spare.

Plymstock skipper Scott Mansfield said winning the toss when there was rain around was good fortune, but not the reason his side won.

“Our bowlers bowled really well, and this showed as we reduced Ottery 100 for four with 10 to go,” said Mansfield. 

“Fair credit to Ottery and skipper Rob Crabb who got them back into the game and ended up 190.

“We were disappointed allow them back, but it was still a decent batting track.

“Jason Williams and Morgan Parkinson played positively, followed by a partnership of 38 between Parkinson and Horton, in which Horton contributed 28. 

“Bronte Bess certainly doesn't hold back 39 off 24 and Horton 48 not out, quickly took the game away.”