CRICKET

BRIDPORT 134 (7) lost to CERNE VALLEY 135-9 (19) by 1 wicket.

ALTHOUGH falling at the last hurdle on Saturday, Bridport's seven points were enough to ensure promotion to Division Two as champions.

Bridport's young guns had thought they'd lost the race for the championship until the surprising news that Fovant had lost to Christchurch filtered through.

Skipper Sean Fitzgerald said: "Nerves played an influential part in Saturday's defeat. With only three players over the age of 30, this was only to be expected.

"The team never really relaxed until the game was drifting away. To their credit, they stuck with their task and nearly pulled of an incredible win."

Cerne won an important toss and inserted Bridport on a wet wicket.

Paul Tweddle showed excellent patience and technique for his 31 and Dave Backhouse produced some big shots towards the end of the innings.

Cerne bowled well on a helpful wicket but Bridport's tail battled out the vital last few overs.

The visitors found things a lot easier after tea and at 84-2, things appeared to be going the way of Fovant.

Peter Moxam then produced his best spell of the season and wickets began to fall.

Chris and Dave Backhouse both took vital wickets and suddenly the game took on a different look.

Unfortunately, it was all just too late as tailenders Corfield and Ashley saw Cerne home.

Dave Backhouse was named A J Wakely and Sons' man of the match for his excellent bowling and batting towards the end of both innings.

Fitzgerald added: "Bridport can now look forward to the prospect of Division Two cricket next season. Everybody concerned with the club can be well pleased with their efforts.

"Even so, their next task will be to keep hold of their many talented youngsters."