METHODISTS gained an impressive eight-wicket away win over champions-elect Carsons & Mangotsfield 2nds.

The match was reduced to 35 overs per side. A couple of early boundaries from skipper Harry Ravenscroft got the home side started - although a smart catch saw him depart soon after.

A great spell from left-armer Paul Evans (1-20) kept the batters on their toes, and he was rewarded with a wicket. Two victims in Craig Eyles' first over of spin found the hosts in trouble at 31-4, but Jack O'Hara (26) then stuck around to give the innings a focal point. Sixteen more runs were added before Eyles claimed a third (3-24), then another three batters fell in two fast overs from Ish Fairoz (3-15), to leave Carsons floundering on 69-8. The introduction of James Green's (2-1) loopy deliveries then brought a swift end - wrapping things up for a mediocre 80.

Tour Ponting (1-13) caused the prolific Alex Nash to chop onto his stumps early on. Eyles and Green then knuckled down, adding 41 vital runs. A great ball from Ben Child (1-16) saw Green (20) return to the pavilion to be replaced by Simon Howlett (15*) - he and Eyles (33*) knocking off the remaining 40 runs.

Carsons & Mangotsfield 2nds 80 all out v Methodists 83-2