Havant and Sarisbury live dangerously

Fraser Hay celebrates one of his four wickets but Portsmouth were outgunned by Sarisbury. Picture: Neil Marshall

Ben Walker (four for 19) and Cameron Prentice bowled superbly up front as the hosts restricted the visitors to 193 for eight in the Southern League premier division battle.

However, the home side made a disastrous start to their chase – Jez Bulled and Walker without scoring.

‘It was a bit hairy,’ said vice-captain Andrew Gorvin.

‘It wasn’t the ideal start but the lads down the order showed just why we are top of the league.

‘We have found a winning formula this season and this keeps us ahead at the top.’

Rob Gibson (36) and Stuart Ransley (30) set about the rebuild.

Gorvin contributed 51 at number six and Havant got home 16 balls to spare.

Sarisbury Athletic moved closer to the division one title and promotion by completing a double over Portsmouth at St Helen’s.

They were made to sweat, though, after slumping to 75 for six.

Late runs from Chris Sanders (26) and Dan Goldstraw (32) helped Sarisbury limp to 149 – with Fraser Hay (four for 31) the pick of the home bowlers.

Portsmouth were then skittled for 52.

Rich Locke (13) was the only batsman to reach double figures with Akram (three for 17) and Dan Goldstraw (three for six) the main tormentors.

‘The scores reflected the conditions,’ said Sarisbury skipper Matt Journeaux.

‘The wind on the seafront made it very unpleasant and the wicket was tough to bat on.

‘It was good to come though a potential banana skin with a win.’