MINEHEAD will be looking to bounce back after their 16-run defeat by Bridgwater 2nd XI when they play away to Taunton in the Somerset Division of the West of England Premier Cricket League today.

Despite last Saturday’s loss, Minehead captain Ian Buchanan said: “We can take many positives away from the first innings fightback – but must go away and work on shot selection and execution ahead of Saturday’s game against Taunton.”

Taunton, a former Premier Division side who have won the Baker Cup a record number of times, made an impressive start to the season, beating Chard away by five wickets.

They restricted the South Somerset side to 244-9 in their 50 overs before knocking off the runs with Dan Quick scoring 60 and Jack Cooper 54.

Having enjoyed better times, Taunton will be one of the favourites for the title this summer.

Minehead 2nd XI are home to their Ilminster counterparts in the first division of the Somerset League.

Minehead lost by 130 runs away to aunton last weekend while Ilminster were also easily beaten – by North Newton who won by 125 runs.

Wiveliscombe, who hammered Uphill Castle 2nd XI by ten wickets in their opening match in Division Four, play their first home game tomorrow when they entertain North Curry who lost by seven wickets at home to Churchill last weekend.

In the first division of the West Somerset League, Brompton Ralph will be looking for another good display when they play away to Bridgetown.

Brompton gained a surprise ten-wicket home victory over champions Bishops Hull on the opening day of the season last

Saturday. Bridgetown also got off to a flyer, winning by seven wickets away to Bagborough in a high-scoring game which produced more than 500 runs.

In the second division, Ashbrittle are home to Wiveliscombe 2nd XI while Kilve entertain East Huntspill. Winford are home to Churchinford after both teams had a blank weekend.

There is a full programme of matches in the Taunton and District Youth League with Bagborough playing Wellington in the Under 13 11-a side division last night.