POTTERNE’S hopes of securing a top three spot in Premier One were boosted at the weekend following a 28-run victory at Bedminster.

Ashur Morrison’s men remain fourth after earning 20 points from their latest league fixture, though they are only two points shy of third-placed Downend.

Bedminster won the toss on Saturday and elected to field, and it looked as though Rob Cunliffe’s decision was set to be a fruitful one when Potterne opener Josh De Souza fell for five runs after he was caught by George Russell off the bowling of Adrian Neil.

After losing their first wicket on 23 runs, Morrison’s arrival at the crease helped Potterne pass the 100 mark without losing a further wicket as the skipper batted well with Thomas Cullen.

The pair put on 112 for the second wicket before Morrison (60) fell when he was trapped LBW by Jack Gibbs.

The home side’s positive start opened the door for increased aggression in the second 25 overs of their innings, and number Neil Clark did just that.

Clark struck 81 quick runs from just 51 balls, while Cullen continued to keep the ship steady as he passed 50.

When Clark departed, Potterne were placed on 268-3. Basil Akram failed to score for Potterne when he was caught for a golden duck.

But that was of little importance to Morrison, who was satisfied to see his troops pass 250.

In reply, Bedminster made a positive start and reached 50 without any loss of wicket. Max Tryfonos was then caught by Nick Mooney.

A further 50 runs were added before Potterne could claim the wicket of Garreth Elphick, who fell for 15 when caught by Clark.

Two further wickets fell over the next 11 runs as Bedminster started to show signs of stumbling in reply.

Though skipper Cuncliffe added a handy 49, the hosts were always chasing the game.

Ed Young and Sahan Wijerathne picked up three wickets apiece as Bedminster were eventually bowled out for 241 with five overs remaining.

Elsewhere in Premier One, Goatacre now must win their remaining two fixtures if they are to avoid relegation following a 182 run loss at Clevedon.

The hosts totalled 261-6 from their 50 overs with Bradley Dawson the pick of Goatacre’s bowlers, recording 2-47.

But in reply, only Josef Breet (37*) could pass 11 runs at Goatacre crashed to 79 all out.