Stoke and Shaldon battled out a hard fought derby at Netherton Park on Sunday, which ultimately saw Stoke bolster their position on top of the South Devon League second division table. 

Stoke had first use of a good batting track, with skipper Paul Russell leading the way with a knock of 76 full of deflections and positive running. 

Much of this came in combination with Mark Titchmarsh, who scored a classy 57 in a stand of 109 with his captain. 

While Titchmarsh and Russell were together at the crease a high total looked on the cards, but both fell to Charlie Woolnough (4-55) as Stoke lost momentum in the final overs to reach 206-9.

After posting what several thought was a below par total on a quality batting track with a quick outfield, Stoke knew they had to perform well in the field. 

Shaldon opener Jimmy Fulner gave them the opportunity in the fourth over as he called Will Farley for a quick single only for Dan Britcliffe to run Farley out with a direct hit. 

Fulner batted well for 49 before Russell supplied another piece of top fielding to take him at short cover off the bowling of Ron Hawkins.

It was Hawkins' chance to shine next as he took a one-handed catch running backwards from mid-off. 

That dismissal was one of Tampi Harvey's three wickets as the quick proved to be the best of the Stoke bowlers. 

A stubborn 45 from Rob Doyle deprived Stoke of maximum points as Shaldon finished on 178-9.

Stoke skipper Paul Russell named himself man of the match, but it was his team's fielding display that won the game and made sure their successful league run continued.