Gloucester defeat Taree West by nine wickets in round five clash in Manning second grade cricket competition

The Bushmen pace bowlers annihilated the West batsmen en route to the side's first win of the season.

West were dismissed for 69 in the 26th over before Gloucester chased down the runs in the 17^th over to win by nine wickets.

"All our bowlers and fielders were excellent and the openers bowled a really tight line to put the pressure on and help us build the platform," Clarke said.

First change bowler Ryan Yates was outstanding, picking up a 4-fa to clean up the tail while Ben Reynolds took the crucial wickets of Lachlan Brown (1), Josh Jones (0) and Shaun Carr (10) to spark the batting collapse.

Clarke said it was the strongest side Gloucester put on the park this season.

The Johnny Martin Oval wicket provided opportunities for both bat and ball.

"We got a bit of movement with the new ball," Clarke said.

"It would have been good for the batters too if they were able to stay in."

Johnny Cornelius took advantage of the good pitch to belt 46 in the Gloucester reply.

The win was crucial to keep the side in touch with the top sides.

Lack of depth has hampered the side in the opening games so the win could be the start of a return to the form which took them to last year's preliminary final.

The Bushmen play at home this Saturday but have a task on their hands. They face former Mid North Coast Premier League side Taree United.

"We're going to need a big effort," Clarke said.

Clarke agreed the win over Taree West was a confidence boost heading into this match.

In other round five action, United scored a washout win over reigning premiers Great Lakes and Old Bar scored a dominant win over Wingham.

United are now outright leaders, ahead of Old Bar and Great Lakes.

Wins in third grade went to Bulahdelah, Taree West Strikers, Great Lakes Gold, Great Lakes Green and Old Bar.