Having posted a useful 181-7 at Devon League Division B side Brixham last Saturday Wellington Sunday XI were in a good position in their pre-season match, but a rampant unbeaten century from their overseas player dented the Red and Blacks victory hopes.

Wellington opted to bat first on a dry track with fast outfield and through Paul Short and Marc Holloway 49 runs were added for the first wicket with Short playing to leg very well as he pounced on the variable line that the Brixham opening attack served up – he made a good 40 before being caught behind.

Holloway was resolute in making 13.

Trevor Brooks and Michael Gill steadied things for Wellington as the score approached three figures and Wellington were ready to have a go in the last ten overs or so.

Richard Henwood with 27 got the wheels turning for Wellington before he was caught at long on – this was the cue for Rob Moysey and Co to add 51 runs in the last seven overs as he made 43no and James Bath, Richard Short and George Hooper all supported him well as Wellington ended on 181-7 in 40 overs.

For Brixham Shepherd with 3-31 in 8 overs was their best offering on the day.

Adrian Lee (1-19 in 7 overs) was exemplary in his line and length and removed Thomas with the score on eight, but Brixham’s South African import Simpson blazed a trail to 106no as the home side raced towards the target.

Richard Short cleaned up Matthewman for 24, but Brixham skipper Ward joined in with 36 runs towards a stand of 109 for the third wicket and this saw the job was nearly done for Brixham and although Paul Short got Ward LBW Brixham got over the line by seven wickets.