PORTLAND RT 107 (5pts) lost to CHRISTCHURCH 108-9 (17pts) by 1 wicket

PORTLAND Red Triangle suffered their first league defeat of the season after a nail-biting finale at Reforne.

Losing the toss, Portland were asked to bat first on what turned out to be a tricky wicket to score on.

After the hosts were dealt a big blow by losing three early wickets, Simon Barrett (16) and captain Matt Randell (25) consolidated and batted for a long period of time but runs were tough to come by for the duo.

But following the loss of both Randell and Barrett, Portland then saw wickets tumble and the only other batsman to provide any real resistance was Matt Barrett, who accumulated an unbeaten 16. Portland were eventually bowled out for a meagre 107.

Knowing that it would be very difficult to defend their total, the islanders went out with an attacking mindset and Jon Cameron struck early to give the hosts a lift.

Simon Proffitt then stepped up to the plate and sparked a flurry of wickets as Portland looked to be back in the game.

The bowling change of Matt Barrett (3-13) coming into the attack then set up a tense finale but with nine wickets down Christchurch held their nerve and crept over the line for victory.

But Portland captain Randell was proud of his side’s spirit.

He said: “It was a real tough one to lose for the boys and a lot of people have taken it to heart which shows the passion that we have in the team.

“Although we lost there are more positives to take from this game than any of the others played and the boys will be sure to know that before this week’s game.

“When as a team we only score 107 we can’t expect to win so to come that close really does show the depth of the bowling we have and just how much passion each and everyone puts into the game.”

The result means that Christchurch now top the pile in County Division Two with three wins from their opening three games.

Portland occupy fourth spot in the standings but are only two points adrift of second-placed Cerne Valley.

  • Elsewhere, in County Division Five, Portland Red Triangle Seconds scratched against Broadstone Thirds.