Defeat by Bovey puts dent in Ivybridge's promotion prospects | 'Now we just look ahead to the final game versus Ivybridge' – Tom Mitch

THE game between Plymstock and Bovey Tracey 2nd XI, which saw 16 wickets tumble for just 161 runs scored, seldom reached any great heights.

Nineteen extras were more than any Plymstock batter made in their 78 all out. James Nicholls (13) came closest.

Reuben Stanley (3-33) led Bovey’s bowling effort, aided and abetted by Harry Pitman, Sam Veal and Chris Yabsley with two wickets each.

Bovey were a faltering 14 for three early on after running into issues against Rob Cunningham (2-17) and Tyrese Karelse.

Karelse (4-44) kept the pressure on Bovey for a while, but a composed 30 not out by Brad Causey had the game won in the 13th over.

Sam Taylor, deputising as Bovey skipper in the absence of Dan Green, said: “It is ever straight forward chasing a low total, especially after losing both openers cheaply

“Brad Causey was superb with the bat, even after taking a nasty one straight onto the rib cage.

“A special mention to Reuben Stanley who was excellent opening up with the ball, then switched to keeping wicket after a long spell.”

Plymstock, never off the top from week three to week 11, have lost their way in recent games and dropped down to third in the table. Ivybridge (2nd) are 12 points ahead of Plymstock with 20 left to play for on the last day. Plymstock have to win, otherwise it is Ivybridge who will be going up behind champions Budleigh Salterton.

Tom Mitch, the Plymstock captain, felt it would not have taken much for the result to have gone the other way.

“With another 20 or 30 on a tricky wicket, we might've been in with a chance,” said Mitch.

“Can't fault the effort from the lads with the ball and in the field.

“Now we just look ahead to the final game versus Ivybridge.”