MIDSOMER Norton Methodists found themselves on the road again, travelling to Downend to play their highly-rated 3rd eleven who gained a decisive 154-run victory.

It was clear from the start that Downend's batters would be quick to punish any slightly wayward bowling, as Chris Binnie and Matt Pound peppered the boundary early on. From going at a-run-a-ball for the first five overs, some measure of control was then established as left-armer Paul Evans (2-27) then claimed both openers - the home batters more circumspect in reaching 40-2 after twelve.

Ryan Collins and Jason Notton then began to up the ante again with some more attacking shots, but Notton was then forced off with cramp. Several more wickets saw the Methodists back in the game at 95-5 in the 23rd over - Collins (47) eventually caught as Mark Robinson (3-35) and James Green (2-45) got in on the action. Notton (55*) then returned to the crease and - with the help of the hosts' lower-order - helped shepherd Downend to a competitive total of 203-9, but the Methodists could be proud of their performance in the field.

After tea, the home team showed why they are near the top of the table! Skilled bowling from Temoor Naeem (4-10) and Mark Litson (1-18) wrought havoc as they dismantled the visitors' top-order, giving little to hit and striking some mortal blows to the Methodists' hopes of mounting a serious challenge. Richard Brand's dashing 17 was the only thing that stopped the scorecard looking like a phone number, as Harry White (2-7), Jason Robinson (2-5) and Dan Lenton (1-0) then finished the job - the Methodists slumping from 28-2 to 49 all out, as Downend boosted their case for promotion. Downend 3rds 203-9, Methodists 49 all out

Methodists' Ball Sponsor - HCL Fasteners. Methodists' Player Sponsors - Purple Bricks, Westsell Packaging, Molehill Construction, Bath Potters' Supplies, Timber Games.