West of England Premier League
Premier 1
Lansdown 93-1 beat Bridgwater 92 by 9 wickets

BRIDGWATER’S availability problems continued on Saturday, when they fell to a nine-wicket defeat at home to Lansdown in double quick time - their fourth consecutive loss.

In the absence of skipper Andrew Hallaran, Chris Skidmore won the toss and opted to bat first on a dry wicket.

Despite the early loss of Calum Haggett, Ben Coombes (18) and Jason Oakes (20) progressed the innings to 44-1 in a solid start.

The loss of Coombes, caught behind off the bowling of impressive left-armer Josh Smith (2-28 off 10 overs), was the catalyst for a collapse from which the hosts would never recover, as the loss of seven wickets for just 20 runs left them at 64-8.

A bright partnership between Tom Bellinger (23) and Kieran Windsor (16) added 21, but Lansdown’s Matt Thomas polished off the innings in taking 7-17 from 6.4 overs, leaving Bridgwater all out for 92.

The chase was completed with the minimum of fuss, with Ian Higgins (1-22 off six) being the only bowler to obtain success, clean bowing Jordan Smith (23).

Josh Smith ended unbeaten on 46 and Oskar Kolk 14, and the visitors couldn’t believe their luck as they had 21 points by 4pm.

Saturday was Bridgwater’s sponsors and charity day, where funds were raised for the British Heart Foundation.

The club would like to thank all of the sponsors who attended and supported the event.

Match ball sponsor: TMB Patterns Ltd.

This Saturday, fourth-placed Bridgwater host Bedminster, who are third, at The Parks (12.30pm).

WEPL Somerset side Bridgwater 2nd XI, meanwhile, are away to Wellington (also 12.30pm).

They will aim to bounce back from last weekend’s derby day defeat at Wembdon, the hosts winning by 72 runs.