A PERFECT sunny afternoon at Norton Hill School saw Midsomer Norton Methodists finally register their first win of the BDCA League season, as they overcame a spirited Stapleton 3rd XI by the margin of 26 runs.

Asked to bat first, the Methodists began in cautious fashion, opening pair Alex Nash and Mark Robinson adding a careful 26 runs in nine overs for the first wicket. Craig Eyles joined Robinson (33) and the scoring rate increased steadily - another 61 notched up before the latter departed at the innings' midway point.

However, Stapleton captain Imran Hussain (3-29) then caused some problems with his zippy spin bowling, eventually trapping Eyles (44) leg-before with eleven overs to go. The final phase saw the visitors shuffle their bowlers frequently, but James Green (28) was in good touch and a final flurry of runs from Dave Sackett and Paul Evans saw the hosts post a competitive total of 167-6 from their allotted 40 overs.

After tea, Dom Baker (21) and Zaid Azhar (30) got Stapleton off to a flying start before Robinson and Eyles struck back for the home team. A tidy spell from Charlotte Hazell (1-34) backed up their good work, while the introduction of Green's temptingly looping deliveries saw him claim three victims in an over.

Causing consternation as the visitors' middle order returned to the pavilion in quick succession, Green put the Methodists firmly in the ascendency, before skipper Hussain (19) then steadied his ship somewhat. Green (4-13) did eventually tease him out though, and - despite a valiant tenth-wicket stand from youngsters Tom Wainwright (18) and Ollie Watts - the home side were able to wrap up their well-deserved victory.

Methodists' Ball Sponsor - Mr Rob Edge; Methodists' Player Sponsors.

Methodists 167-6 v Stapleton 3rds 141 all out