Midsomer Norton fell at the final hurdle in their bid for promotion, paying the penalty for several lacklustre performances in the second half of the season. Taunton were worthy title winners as they put together a run of nine consecutive victories.
In the final game away to Bedminster, Norton were inserted on a rain-affected wicket and found runs hard to come by. Martin Cox (21) was unlucky to be adjudged LBW to end a partnership of 25 with Dean Clifton, who batted well for 48. James Carter bowled an excellent spell of ten overs, taking 3–36. Nick Potter guided the lower order to 189–8 as he remained unbeaten on 54 and the total looked defendable at tea.
Alex Davis and Henry Voigt found control difficult at the start of Bedminster's reply, although Davis picked up two wickets. A change of ends improved his accuracy and Potter also bowled well as Bedminster were reduced to 50–5 in the twelfth over. Gareth Elphick (64 not out) stood firm, however, and James Carter helped him add 59 for the sixth wicket. Elphick also had good support from John Busby and Sam Knapp as the wides continued and the fielding deteriorated. The winning runs came in the 49th over and Norton were left to rue the concession of 43 wides.
This weekend sees the season's last league fixture as the Sunday Firsts travel to Corsham.