VENTNOR are off the bottom of the ECB Southern Electric Premier Division for the first time this season after a remarkable 12-run victory over Bashley (Rydal).

Seemingly down and out at 80-7, they mounted a late order recovery, doubling their total to 174 and then bowling third-placed Bashley out for 162, writes Mike Vimpany.

Ventnor (141 points) have edged two points clear of bottom side Sarisbury Athletic and one behind Burridge, who they face in a critical 50-over affair at Newclose on Saturday.

“That one will be crucial,” said Ventnor skipper Mark Holmes. “There’s a real belief in the camp we can get out of this and a win over Burridge would be enormous.”

With the innings seemingly in tatters at 80-7 (Sean Willis 28) and Bashley spin twins Tom Andrews (4-64) and Sam Thomson (3-53) in full flight, there seemed no way back for the Islanders.

But, led by Rob Snell (48), Ventnor’s tail dug in, with teenager Ross Whyte (15) and Holmes (28) adding precious runs as the visitors posted a competitive total.

Bashley were soon three down with one run on the board, Tom Friend (2-12) and Holmes (3-44) putting Michael Porter, Josh Digby and James Morris back in the pavilion.

When Richard Morris (11) fell to Snell, Bashley were 20-4 on a deteriorating surface.

But the left-handed Andrews, who plays his farewell Bashley match at St Cross Symondians this weekend, looked capable of winning the match on his own.

His patient 70 (ten fours), with support from Tom Jacques, took Bashley to a threatening 125-5.

When 16-year old George Willis bowled the Australian with a low delivery, Ventnor’s hopes soared again.

Chris Ridley made a brave 26, but Henry Bartlett took 3-37 as Bashley were all out for162.