WEPL Premier 2 Bristol/Som
Taunton St Andrew's 165-7 beat Shapwick & Polden 162 by 3 wkts

A SUPERB cameo from James Hayman helped rescue league leaders Taunton St Andrew's as they were given a scare by Shapwick & Polden on Saturday.

The Saints bowled first but, after the early removal of Sam Edmunds, were frustrated by Steven Tinnion, who hit seven boundaries on his way to 36.

Lloyd Alley (2-26) was on hand to spark life into the hosts' bowling attack, removing Alex Ralston (9) and Tinnion in quick succession to leave the visitors on 59-3.

The home side continued to take wickets at regular intervals, with Michael Leask (2-20), Deven Bell (2-19) and Luke Poole (2-9) claiming two apiece as Shapwick fell to 162 all out.

Saints could hardly have got off to a worse start in reply, losing James Regan, Leask and Alley early as they slipped to 4-3.

Rob Contreras joined Eddie Byrom, and the pair began to rebuild before the young Somerset opener was dismissed for 20.

The experienced Kevin Parsons made a vital 24 and Contreras hung around for his 41, but when their departures were followed by that of Bell, the Saints required 38 more runs to win with just three wickets left.

Enter Hayman, who made light work of the task at hand as he blasted two 4s and three 6s on his way to a match-winning 34 not out, which came from just 28 balls, while Kyle Hopper (14*) held his nerve at the other end.

The crucial victory means the Saints now hold a 23-point cushion over Bishopston at the top of the table ahead of this weekend's trip to Ilminster.

ACROSS town, there was disappointment for Taunton and Taunton Deane as their scheduled derby clash was abandoned without a ball being bowled as Friday's downpour soaked the outfield.

It means neither side has been able to claim the bragging rights this season, as the reverse fixture was also ruined by rain.