PORTLAND RT v

SUTTONERS

PORTLAND will be looking to bounce back from last week's disappointing seven-wicket defeat at Cranborne when they host Suttoners at Reforne in Dorset Funeral Plan Division Three tomorrow (2pm).

The islanders were skittled for 65 all-out at Pennys Lane, losing their first six batsmen for just 15 runs, but this week they will be a lot stronger with skipper Martin Hewson back available along with all-rounder Jan Davey.

Portland secretary Grant Neven said: "We had four or five missing last week and we lost the toss on an awful wicket.

"We really struggled with the bat and that will have to improve but there were also some encouraging performances from the youngsters so we will go into tomorrow's game in good spirits despite what was a disappointing defeat."

Hewson's main aim, since being appointed in the summer, is to make his side more professional, and he is looking forward to putting his own stamp on things tomorrow.

He said: "An opening game defeat is not the best start to the season but reports point to the pluses and the lessons to be taken on board from the result.

"We must not let our heads drop and every player must give 100 per cent. From what I have heard that is exactly what everyone did last week and it is important we continue that."

Portland: Hewson, Barrett, Rathnayke, Neven, Dixon, Strong, West, Davey, Riley, Whisker, Smart.