HEMYOCK remain top of the third division in the West Somerset Cricket League despite suffering a massive 178-run defeat against Minehead 3rd XI.

Batting first Minehead, who had won only one of their previous seven matches, scored 246-7 in their 40 overs with Charlie Tudball being their batting star, hammering 126, his knock including 14 fours and seven sixes.

Jithin Rajan, who took a hat-trick for the Thirds in a cup match recently, also scored 57, hitting seven fours and two sixes. Pavisekan Nadesvaran took 4-42 and Jimmy Adams 2-45.

Hemyock slumped to a very disappointing 68 all out with opener Jalal Ahmed running out of partners in scoring 21 not out. Rajan took 4-8, Ben Cobb 3-18 and Sreejith Anilkumur 2-40.

The Devon side stay 33 points clear of second-placed Cutcombe, who did not play and have a game in hand on the rivals.

In the only other game played in the division, Ashbrittle 2nd XI gained a 58-run win over Carhampton. Batting first Ashbrittle score 232-5 in their 40 overs with Chris Hill hitting 110 with 14 fours and four sixes. Rupert Gabriel scored 43 and Peter Woodberry 25 while Paul Keal took 2-9 and Nick Winzer 2-56.

Sam Price and James Snell both scored 33 as Carhampton were bowled out for 174 in 29-2 overs while Ryan Cape made 29. Michael Hill finished with figures of 4-38 and Leon Westcott 3-55.

Hemyock will be looking to bounce back after their heavy defeat when they play away to Ashbrittle on Saturday, July 5, while Cutcombe are at home to Bishops Hull. Hemyock and Cutcombe have opened up a big lead over Bishops Hull who are in third place. Cannington, who are lying fourth in the table, play away to Carhampton