Cann's four-wicket salvo puts Kilmington on course for win over Cullompton | Victory shunts Lilly clear of drop zone

CULLOMPTON slid back into the A Division bottom two following a four-wicket loss against Kilmington in the basement clash on the Hitchcock Field.

Going four games without a win – one of them a rain-off when no one in the bottom half of the table started – is why Cullompton find themselves back in a relegation place.

Kilmington, in contrast, are a team on the up, They shot 14 points clear of the danger area on the strength of this result.

Brendon Parr’s side were always up against it after they were bowled out for 105 in the 34th of their 50 overs.

Although Cully put up a gallant defence of their modest total – they had Kilmington rocking at 72 for five in reply – Luke Meek (21) ended any doubts about the outcome.

When Cullompton were 47 for two in the 13th over with opener Harry Everett (22) the primary run scorer so far, the innings looked in good shape. Then Josh Cann got involved… Cann ran through the middle order on his way to taking four for 28 as Cully’s batting fell apart. If Cann didn’t get them, Joel Seward (7-2) did.

Dan King, eighth out on 102, made a patient 41 that at least gave the bowlers something to defend. And they gave it a good go.

Kilmington went in fits and starts from 47 for one to 72 for five with Jason Parr (3-29) and Anzil Nazmudeen (2-37) pegging them back.

By the time Meek out the deficit was six, which Connor Trott and Sam Farrow obtained without incident.

Oli Reed, the Kilmington captain, said: “It was an important win for us as a group. 

“Reed added: “We bowled with a lot of confidence, and a special mention to Josh Cann for a top spell, as well as some outstanding glove work from young Connor Trott.

“We still need to improve in certain areas with the bat, as we're continuing to lose wickets too cheaply.

“Credit to Cully, who made us work hard for the win.”