Honiton claimed the result of the day as they defeated visiting Filleigh by 45 runs at Mountbatten Park.

It was also a big result for new skipper Adam Holmes, taking charge of the team for the first time following the standing down of former captain Kev Kelly.

Whilst the win, only their second of the season, does not lift them off the basement spot, they have closed to within four points of the two teams immediately above them, Feniton and Halberton and with the latter at home this Saturday, they could be out of the bottom two by the end of the month!

After losing the toss Honiton were asked to bat and fine knocks from Nathan Groves (76) and former skipper Kev Kelly (56), led them to a very respectable 237-7.

Skipper Holmes said: “It was very satisfying to get past 200 for the first time this season. Both Nathan and Kev batted very sensibly in what were difficult conditions to bat in. Although the wicket was dry the outfield wasn’t and it was horrible weather to be playing in, certainly not cricket weather! However, we did what we had to do and got the job done.”

The skipper claimed 3-27 and Phil Tansley took 2-27 as Filleigh were bowled out for 192.

Next up is the meeting with a Halberton & Sampford Peverell side that also picked up a second success of the season when they defeated Feniton.

Holmes says: “As long as we are all as positive as we were against Filleigh then I am sure we’ll soon start to climb the table. It’s a big game this one as we have the chance to climb above them (Halberton) and even possibly be out of the bottom two come stumps on Saturday.”

John Hext is unavailable so it will mean one change from the eleven who despatched Filleigh so confidently.

Honiton II were comprehensively beaten at Clyst St George II who scored 329-4 and then bundled Honiton out for 61.