TEMPLE Cloud's cricketers enjoyed a highly successful weekend with both their 1st and 2nd XIs recording impressive victories, overcoming difficult conditions and spirited opposition at Wembdon and Farmborough.

The standout result came at Wembdon, where the 1st XI not only secured a 22-run win but also climbed back up to second place in the Somerset Division of the West of England Premier Cricket League after a challenging few weeks in which they dropped from top to fourth spot.

Wembdon vs Temple Cloud (1st XI): On a gloomy and rain-soaked afternoon in Wembdon, the hosts won the toss and elected to bowl under thick grey skies — a decision that appeared smart early on but ultimately backfired as Temple Cloud’s batting line-up delivered a composed and balanced performance to post 238 for 5 from their 50 overs.

Gary Filer anchored the innings with a classy 60, laying the foundation alongside Reece Croker (49), who narrowly missed a half-century. Andrew Mortimer’s unbeaten 49 was crucial in the closing overs, adding pace and purpose to lift Temple Cloud to a competitive total.

Wembdon’s response was gritty, led by an outstanding 84 from A. Barnard, whose composed knock kept the home side in contention. However, his dismissal — a brilliant diving catch by Croker off Mortimer’s bowling — swung momentum firmly in Temple Cloud’s favour. The hosts were eventually bowled out for 216, falling 22 runs short of the target.

The win was underpinned by a superb bowling display. Rob Head was the pick of the bowlers, claiming 4 for 47 and breaking through at key moments. Croker, capping off an excellent all-round performance, took 2 for 48 in a tireless 10-over spell. Charlie Thompson’s economy (10-0-31-0) helped apply critical pressure during the middle overs, stifling Wembdon’s scoring rate.

Importantly, this result marked a return to form for Temple Cloud’s 1st XI, who moved back up to second place in the league table. After a difficult few weeks marked by inconsistency and missed opportunities, this win puts them back in the title race heading into the business end of the season.

Temple Cloud 2nd XI vs Winscombe: At Farmborough, Temple Cloud’s 2nd XI also impressed in a rain-shortened 35-over match, comfortably defeating Winscombe by seven wickets.

Winscombe posted 172 for 8, with the wickets shared around evenly among the bowlers. Tom Haydon and C. Arbery claimed two apiece, while N. Brooks, R. Prevett, J. Wall, and D. Raisbeck also chipped in. A standout moment in the field came from M. Goodchild, who took a superb catch that helped restrict Winscombe’s late charge.

In reply, Temple Cloud chased the target with confidence. Haydon completed a fine all-round performance with a fluid 59, while Brooks anchored the innings with an unbeaten 55. He was supported by J. Wall (19) and L. Raisbeck (17*), who struck the winning runs in the 33rd over.

Summing up, it was a statement day for Temple Cloud two cricket sides. The 1st XI returned to form and rose to second in the table thanks to a well-rounded performance in tough conditions. Meanwhile, the 2nd XI showcased depth and consistency with a convincing win of their own. With momentum now swinging their way, both sides will look to carry this form into the weeks ahead.