ECB National Club Championship Group 10 semi-final

St Just 242-6 beat Bridgwater 160 by 82 runs

BRIDGWATER crashed out of the ECB National Club Championship with an 82-run defeat at Cornish side St Just on Sunday.

Captain Steffan Jones struck a powerful half-century as Bridgwater set about chasing down an imposing 242, but it was a lone hand from the all-rounder and his side eventually slumped to 160 all out in the 42nd over.

Earlier in the day, Matt Habberfield returned figures of 3-53 after Bridgwater had won the toss and elected to bowl first.

Gary Thomas (76) and Neil Curnow (55) both hit half-centuries for the Cornish outfit as they posted a commanding total from their 45 overs - while there was one wicket apiece for Steffan Jones (1-45), Andrew Roberts (1-41) and Scott Clapp (1-39).

After a mammoth journey south for Bridgwater, St Just got off to a flyer, reaching 123-2 before Scott Clapp removed the dangerous Curnow for 55.

Habberfield then accounted for Gary Thomas as he walked past one to be stumped by Tom Pople, but strong hitting in the middle order powered the hosts to 242-6 from 45 overs.

Bridgwater’s reply started in disastrous fashion, slipping to 13-3 as Justin Stephens (3-19) tore through the top order, removing Pople, Kitch and Gange in quick succession.

Todd Barrett (20) and Merv Hallaran (25) briefly rebuilt, but when when the former was dismissed, Bridgwater were struggling at 63-5.

Captain Jones fired his side back into the hunt with an aggressive 66, but that was as good as it got for Bridgwater, who finished up well short of their target.

Match Travel Sponsor: Falcon Vehicle Solutions and Higos Insurance Services Ltd.

## THE Barrington Coombes T20 match between Bridgwater and Taunton Deane at The Parks, has been moved from this Friday (June 6) back to Friday June 20 at 6pm. The match, in memory of Kit Barrington and Richard Coombes, legends of both Clubs was superbly supported at the Deane last season and it is hoped all VPs and Members will do the same this year, where a very warm welcome is guaranteed.