WELLINGTON 2nd XI remain top of the third division in the Somerset Cricket League after a thriling four-run home win over Middlezoy who went into the game also unbeaten.

Wellington have now won their opening five matches in the league and have a 33-point lead over Middlezoy who stay second, both sides having played five matches.

Wellington, who won the toss and chose to bat, scored 162-8 in their 40 overs with Paul Short being their leading run-maker with 56, a knock which included eight fours.

Rob Moysey was Wellington's second highest batter with 31, while Neil Hendy scored 18 and Andy Hurry 15 before being run out.

Edward Peacock took 3-30 and Nathan Barnard 2-25.

Middlezoy made a disastrous start, losing three wickets for only nine runs as Hurry and Tom Hopkins struck early on.

Taylor Flitton came to Middlezoy's rescue with a defiant 48 and shared in a fourth-wicket stand of 50 with James Lacey (22).

A ninth-wicket partnership of 27 runs by Nat Brown (8) and James Wanliss (17) almost won the game for the visitors, who lost their last two wicket without scoring.

Tom Hopkins took 3-27, Rob Moysey 3-35 and Neil Hendy 2-15.

Wellington 162-9 33 pts, Middlezoy 158 16.