Toss won by

PRT 1st XI

Man of the Match

Weymouth:Trotter, Dave

Match Report

Weymouth Seconds did their fleeting Division One survival hopes the power of good with a terrific five-wicket success over Portland Red Triangle. And it was bowler David Trotter who emerged as an unlikely hero with the bat at Reforne. Having been set a target of 211 for victory, the former Dorset paceman, who was returning to weekend cricket following a knee injury, smashed a hard hit 80 as the visitors ended their in-form opponent's run ofthree straight wins.

After winning the toss, home skipper Simon Barrett chose to bat first in the sunshine and it was Jon Dixon who got the islanders off to a cracking start, hitting 47 runs in 31 balls before holing out to Trotter off the bowling of the excellent Chris Knight. The introduction of off-spinner Cube Whyte checked Portland's progress further, while Jason Styles was forced to bat with a runner because of a foot injury.

Despite having his movement severely restricted, the stalwart top order batsman hit a patient 43 while Gary Randell (34) and Simon Barrett (20) also made useful contributions before both were dismissed by Trotter(3-37). Knight (3-33) and Whyte (2-38) were the pick of the visitors' attack as Triangle ended their innings on 210 after 45 overs.

Weymouth began their run chase in positive style with Trotter striking several boundaries early on to keep his side up with the asking rate of 4.69 runs per over. With Glen Kelman unable to bowl due to a knee injury sustained while batting, Triangle's options were limited although they found hope in experienced left-arm spinner Dixon who, on an increasingly lifeless pitch, managed to pick up three wickets for just 34 runs in his 10 over spell.

Despite his efforts, the Seasiders were always in control with Dave Kiteley and Knight smashing several handsome off side boundaries as the visitors eased past their target with five wickets and 10 balls to spare.

Weymouth skipper Whyte said "That was a massive win for us and hopefully it is the start of things to come. We know what we've got to do to get out of trouble and the boys are really up for the challenge.

"Everyone played their part against a strong Portland side but obviously David Trotter was a little bit special. Chris Knight was also superb on his comeback for the club and I'm delighted with the performance."

Portland captain Simon Barrett added: "We are really disappointed to be beaten and by our arch-rivals as well. I felt our total was a little short of what we should have achieved and too many of our batsmen got a start but were unable to go on.

"In addition, our fielding was again not up to the required standard although Ben Doidge was outstanding. Having said that, David Trotter hit the ball really cleanly and it was good to see him back playing again, although I just wish he'd waited till next week!"

Points Awarded

Econ.

4.40

4.80

3.30

3.80

7.40

Econ.

4.00

5.30

5.40

6.00

3.40