BISHOPS Lydeard chased down an imposing total of 295 to defeat promoted Ilton with four balls to spare in the West of England League Somerset Division on Saturday.

In an enthralling game, the visitors were asked to bowl first and despite some early breakthroughs, Ilton’s Joffy Williams (83) and Paul Oliver (111) batted superbly to set an imposing 296 for victory.

Lydeard’s star man with the ball was Brian Stone, snapping up 6-63 from his 12 overs, including the crucial wickets of Oliver and Williams.

In response, Lydeard made a solid start with openers Andy Clark and veteran Andy Sapey sharing an opening stand of 48. Lydeard then continued to build good partnerships but seemed to lose wickets at crucial times.

Clark was next to go, dismissed for an energetic 57, while Justin Burke followed for a well-made 43. Gareth Bellamy (34) continued to build the momentum and following his dismissal, the game was set up for an exciting finish.

With nine an over needed from the remaining 12 overs Justin Hayward who produced a man-of-the-match performance, scoring an excellent 74 not out, ably assited by a quick-fire 31 from Josh Parker to seal a memorable win.