CRICKET: Burnham-on-Sea beat Shapwick and Polden in Shrubbery Hotel Somerset League

BURNHAM-ON-SEA claimed their first league win of the season at the ninth attempt as Brad House’s half-century guided them past Shapwick & Polden 2nds on Saturday.

Visiting Shapwick won the toss and chose to make first use of the wicket on a hot afternoon, but Craig Scriven took two early wickets on his way to 3-52 in nine overs.

Scriven’s new ball partner Andy Birkett (1-11 off five) also chipped in before Rob Driver (3-14 off nine) and Brett Diver (3-28 off seven) did the rest as Shapwick were bowled out for 140.

Only William Rudge (35) made a telling contribution with the bat for the away side, while Lee Coles claimed three catches in the outfield for Burnham.

The reply stuttered slightly as Tom Barr (2-13) removed openers Peter Harris (11) and Dave Worthington (9), but any fears Burnham may have had were allayed by skipper Rob Driver and Brad House.

The pair stayed together to see Burnham home by eight wickets from the final ball of the 30th over, Driver finishing unbeaten on 33 and House finishing on 58 not out, with eight fours and a six.

Burnham remain bottom of the table at the halfway stage of the season, but the much-needed victory has closed the gap on the sides above them and will provide the hosts with confidence.

On Saturday, Burnham face a big game at home to second-bottom Ashbrittle.

***

BURNHAM-ON-SEA RFC switched sports on Sunday for a cricket match against Burnham-on-Sea CC - and won!

Chris Spinks hit 68 not out and Lee Vaughan added an unbeaten 58 as the rugby team won by 10 wickets.