Tipton St John narrowly lost their David O’Higgins memorial fixture against Woodbury & Newton St Cyres, despite fielding four of the opposition's players.

The game celebrated O’Higgins, who chalked up 742 appearances for Tipton from 1995 to 2020.

Owen Smith took 2-37 and had a close shave when battingOwen Smith took 2-37 and had a close shave when batting (Image: Phil Wright)

Tom Dowle secured solid bowling stats for Tipton with 2-10 off 8 overs, while O'Higgins' grandson Charles aided a recovery with a decent 29 aided by Dave Jessop with 22 helped Tipton’s recovery after they lost two early wickets.

A good partnership between Dave Alford and Dave Thayre 56 not out saw Tipton reach 158-6 in their 40 overs.

Dave Thayre top scored with 56 not outDave Thayre top scored with 56 not out (Image: Phil Wright)

However, a combative 35 off 17 balls by Woodbury's Mukesh Purohit and 63 from Matt Moretta shifted the balance.

Dave Jessop made 22Dave Jessop made 22 (Image: Phil Wright)

Despite an economical performance by John Buckland who took 1-19 from 8, and two wickets from Owen Smith, it was to no avail as Woodbury met their target with two overs to spare.