LUSTLEIGH welcomed Bridford to the village on a grey afternoon with hint of showers around, with the visitors winning the toss and electing to bat first, on Wednesday, June 3.

Captain Matt Pearce opened the bowling and immediately set the tone, returning figures of one wicket for 12 runs from his three overs. Alongside him, Alex Spring kept the pressure on and ensured Bridford never found any real momentum at the top of the order.

Making his first appearance of the season, Ollie Poustie bowled with good control and deserved more reward for his efforts. His spell, combined with that of cousin Paddy Poustie, helped keep the scoring in check.

Paddy was the pick of the bowlers alongside Duncan Chapman, claiming identical figures of three wickets for 16 runs each.

Thanks to a disciplined all-round bowling display, Lustleigh restricted Bridford to 112.

In reply, Lustleigh got off to a positive start. Harry Bannister entertained spectators with his usual array of attacking shots before departing for 21.

John Wright then cleared the boundary on several occasions before reaching the retirement limit. Not to be outdone, Paddy Poustie completed an excellent all-round performance by also reaching retirement.

Batting at number five, new signing Matt Powell – making both his club and village debut – looked assured at the crease and immediately showed his potential. Attempting to launch Bridford’s opening bowler over the trees, he was bowled, but there was plenty to suggest Lustleigh supporters will enjoy watching his future exploits.

With the target in sight, Matt Pearce and Duncan Chapman calmly guided Lustleigh home, securing victory with seven overs remaining and four wickets in hand.

The win makes it three victories from three matches in the Dartmoor League for Lustleigh, who continue their excellent start to the season.

Man of the match, kindly sponsored by The Cleave, was Paddy Poustie for his outstanding all-round contribution of 3 wickets for 16 runs and 27 runs with the bat.

Lustleigh’s next fixture is another home match, this time against Chagford on Wednesday, June 10.