Midsomer Norton's long, unbeaten run finally came to an end at the hands of Taunton.
Upon losing the toss, Norton were inserted by the home Skipper. Hoping to make their usual good start, Norton were left in disarray as their top order were blown away, mainly by Popplewell, as a mix of good bowling and injudicious shots saw the visitors slump to 29–5. After a slight recovery from Potter and Blackmore, Jon Harvey stepped in to play the sort of innings that had deserted the top order. With some good application from members of the lower order, he dragged Norton to a more respectable 164–9.
Knowing they would need an early breakthrough to pressure the potentially fragile Taunton middle order, Norton began full of aggressive intent. Despite beating the edge of Davenport's bat and a early shout for LBW against Abell, Norton were unable to find the breakthrough they needed, as some excellent running and sumptuous boundaries saw Taunton rack up an unbeaten century opening stand before the impressive Sam Gould managed to claim the wicket of Davenport. Taunton soon passed the total needed, yet given the ease that their wickets tumbled after the initial breakthrough, Norton were left to rue what fifty more runs would have meant to the outcome of this game. Strugglers Wembdon travel to Withies Lane this Saturday. On the same day, the Seconds visit Bristol West Indian and Phoenix CC and the Thirds go to Whitchurch. The Sunday Firsts host Corsham at Withies Lane, while the Sunday Seconds have an away fixture with Bristol Pakistanis.