Hampshire Academy claimed an impressive 10-run Southern Electric Premier League victory against Lymington as valuable half-centuries from Ben Duggan (72) and Brad Taylor (72) guided them to a close-fought triumph, despite a superb century from Hampshire first-team squad member Lewis McManus (102).

After winning the toss and electing to bowl, the hosts made early inroads as the Academy lost two early wickets with just 53 on the board.

However both Duggan and Taylor led the recovery and the two top-order batsman fought well to reach well-made fifties to send the visitors on their way as they posted 229-6.

In reply, early wickets fell again as the away-side’s opening bowlers Tristan Alsop (4-41) and Ryan Murray (4-49) did the damage this time to leave Lymington 60-4.

One thing in their favour however, was that wicket-keeper batsman McManus remained at the crease and he began his innings positively with early boundaries flowing.

Despite the frequent loss of wickets, the right-hander continued to look in excellent touch and as home-side edged close to the required target, McManus reached his century at a rate of almost a run a ball.

Although McManus’ dominated Lymington’s run-scoring, a lack of support meant that the Academy still had victory in their sights and when the centurion fell with 11 runs still needed for victory, their chances of victory were ended with the travelling side picking up the final two wickets in quick succession to pick up yet another win.

Words: Will Brewster