Phillimore happy with team's progress

They were comprehensively beaten by Roffey on the opening day and held on for a losing draw with St James Montefiore last weekend but the unpredictable spring weather has hindered their cause in both encounters.

Phillimore remains upbeat and reiterated that his main objective for the season is to nurture their promising youngsters. He said: "We played better this week and got less points but a draw is better than losing. I would love more points but the commitment's there and we are steadily improving."

St James declared on 226-1 with Ed McGregor hitting an unbeaten 100 and opening partner Henry Ledden 84.

A number of the Bexhill batsmen got going in replay but were dismissed when on the verge of a really big score. Phillimore top-scored with an undefeated 59 and Richard Harrison added 43 as they finished on 193-8.