OPENING batsman Tim Richards played a blinder of a knock to help Byfleet Cricket Club overcome the challenge of Godalming by 48 runs in the 1st XI Premier at Parvis Road last Saturday.

Richards, who shared a first wicket partnership of 72-1 with Andy Savage, went on to plunder a marvellous 107 off 71 balls before departing with the side at 163-4.

His time at the crease produced nine boundaries and half a dozen sixes as he gave the visitors’ bowlers a torrid afternoon. Best of the rest with the bat for the home side was South African Riley Coutts who hit a swift 39 off 43 deliveries before he fell foul of Dominic Dawson who took 2-44 from six overs.

With a target of 269 to chase, Godalming showed resolve to move on from 11-1 to 86-2 before losing three further wickets in quick succession including that of number five batter Will Kriehn who departed for a golden duck.

Late running by Will Hern (28) and Hayden Bishop (33) gave the visitors a flicker of hope, but that was extinguished by the precise bowling of Riley Coutts who took both of their wickets as he finished the afternoon on 4-57 off eight overs.

For more cricket reports, see the 25 May edition of the News & Mail - in shops now.