Cowdrey 256-9 beat Walmer 137 by 119 runs
A FIERY affair between two in-form sides at Swanmead in Kent League Division Four saw Cowdrey open up a gap at the top of the table.
Home captain Anthony Mills lost his fifth toss in a row and on a green surface Walmer had no hesitation in asking Cowdrey to bat first.
Ash Borella, with 56 including five fours and two sixes, and Jack Southwart (26) negotiated a tricky first hour to put on 108 for the first wicket.
However, three wickets then fell in the space of three overs, with both openers being deceived by left-arm spinner Thomas Mitchell.
Rebuilding started with Barney Scott and Stuart Clarke (22) before the latter fell to Tom Burnap, who brought himself into the attack.
The impetus continued with talisman Ryan Addison (31) and the destructive Jack Mutch (25) providing support for the steady Scott (41).
The home side posted an imposing 256 for 9 with Burnap picking up 4 for 45 and 38 wides also playing a big hand in the large total.
The Walmer response was reduced to 7 for 2 when fast-medium pacer Chris Fenwick removed the dangerous Burnap caught behind first ball.
But Walmer counter-attacked with Charlie Walsh hitting a quick 44 with five fours and four sixes.
Mills introduced Rob Fenwick and took an excellent catch off a skier to dismiss the aggressor.
The dependable Glen Warner turned the contest in Cowdrey’s favour with accurate medium-pace bowling to return 3 for 32. Fenwick picked up 4 for 28 as Walmer were dismissed for 137.
Tonbridge moved into third place after their 73-run victory at home to Addington Village. They posted 199 with contributions all down the order, then bowled out the visitors for 126 with Chris Martin taking 4 for 23, assisted by Nilesh Patel (2 for 10) and John Simmons (2 for 39).
All eyes will be on the town derby at Popular Meadow as Cowdrey pay a visit to local rivals Tonbridge.
PICTURE: GAME CHANGER: Rob Fenwick picked up 4 for 28
