JERSEY’S cricketers suffered mixed fortunes on a two-match tour to Devon over the Bank Holiday weekend.

On Sunday, the Islanders won by five runs against Sidmouth and East Devon while yesterday they lost by 96 runs to a Devon Cricket Board XI.

Jersey chairman of selectors Dave Gorman said: ‘It was a worthwhile exercise playing matches away and although yesterday’s defeat was disappointing, Sunday’s victory was excellent.

‘I was impressed with the squad’s commitment throughout and Peter Gough, Ryan Driver and Tony Carlyon bowled well in both games.

‘Peter was the star of the weekend – he was excellent in both games with the ball while on Sunday his 78 runs when opening was a solid knock and a fine effort.

‘We’ve all gained valuable experience from the games but the door is not closed on others to come in.

There are two or three places up for grabs and anyone who plays well will be given an opportunity in future matches.’ Gough and Ryan Driver put on an excellent fourth-wicket stand of 142 against Sidmouth and East Devon after Jersey were struggling on 33 for 3.

Former County player Driver hit the ball hard and, playing shots around the wicket, he was eventually out for 88 following two 6s and ten 4s.

Sidmouth and East Devon’s reply was good and Gough eventually helped stem their flow of runs with nine slow off-spin overs for just 31 runs, and, together with some fine Jersey fielding, this enabled Jersey to secure a five-run success.

Devon Cricket Board got off to a flying start yesterday hitting 63 runs off the first eight overs with seamers Paul Horton and Mark Saralis suffering on a medium to slow wicket.

Gough again impressed with the ball, delivering five maidens in a ten-over spell of one wicket for 21 runs.

Jersey, chasing 215 for victory, lost wickets regularly to be all out for 118 although Ben Silva stayed at the wicket for just under two hours before finishing unbeaten on 44.