Portland Red Triangle continued their impressive unbeaten run in Sunday’s NSA Division 6 with victory against Suttoners at Kinson Manor.

A fine innings of 87 by Ben Doidge, son of former Triangle legend Ashley, saw the islanders to their ninth successive victory and kept them firmly on top of the division.

After winning the toss, Suttoners chose to make first use of the track and put on a competitive 214-7, anchored by Clifford who hit an impressive 128, as the home side looked to end Triangle’s run. Fine bowling from Scott Males (4-39), including a superb caught and bowled, and skipper Graham Elenor (2-27) removed Clifford’s partners before they finally stopped the centurion adding to his total.

In reply, following the early loss of the first wicket, Doidge joined Dave Males (52) and the pair put on 101 for the second wicket as Portland took control of the game. Young Doidge was lucky to be there at all as he was given out to such a contentious lbw decision when on nine, that Suttoners’ captain was forced to recall him back to the crease.

The loss of Males brought Mark Nott to the middle, and a solid knock of 22 added to a third wicket stand of 57, before Ben was dismissed lbw, a decision that stood this time. Suttoners bowlers Moss (2-47) and Bransby (2-26) posed the only real threat to Triangle, who gratefully accepted the 30 wides from the visitors as they chased the victory total. It was left to wicketkeeper Grant Neven and Bill Trevett to hit the winning runs with four overs to spare as Portland kept up their hopes of a second promotion in as many seasons.