Creer (pictured) plays anchorman for Clyst in run chase | Donovan and Manning a threat with the ball

CLYST St George skipper Dan Kendall praised his side’s bowling attack for their prominent role in the six-wicket win over Bideford.

The match started badly for Bideford with opener James Ford dismissed in the first over – one of four wickets pouched by Clyst seamer Andy Donovan.

None of the top three got off the mark in a running total of 26 for five as Donovan (4-26) and Ollie Manning (4-41) wreaked havoc with Bideford’s batting.

Jack Ford, the Bideford captain, made 24 and Alex Hannam batted on to reach 43 as Bideford cobbled together 106 all out.

Clyst did not get off to the best of starts as openers Dan Kendall and Nathan Wells came and went for five runs between them!

Freddie Creer dropped anchor for an unbeaten 46 off 77 balls as Clyst took few risks on the way to all 20 points.

Wiehann Meyer (17) and Thom Bunker (21) supported Creer on the way to victory.

Said Kendall: “Our bowlers consistently asked questions of the Bideford batters on a pitch that offered a bit of assistance.

“Andy and Ollie looked unplayable at times and never allowed Bideford to build a significant partnership. 

“It was good to have different players step up and see Freddie anchor the chase very well.”

Ford said although Bideford were well below par, he had to credit Clyst’s performance.

“Clyst were the much better team on the day and fully deserved their win,” said Ford. 

“Clyst's opening bowlers bowled really well up front – and you're never going to win a game of cricket from three down after the first two overs of the game.

“Our tail end did well to get us up to 106 after being 51 for seven but, obviously, defending a score that low is always going to be extremely hard work.

“Overall, we just didn't turn up as a team. And we still haven't hit the levels we know we are capable of.”