Newport were put in to bat and quickly fell to 8 for 1, but skipper Michael Clayden showed his experience and played a fine innings to ease past his century (108), ably supported by Jack Hope-Bell (30) and Morgan Bevans (40).

Newport at that stage were looking at a total of over 300, but Ammanford managed to tie them back to 274 for 7 from their allotment of 50 overs.

The most economical bowlers were the ever-reliable Fahad Sabir (3 for 38), experienced Alun Evans (1 for 28) and youngster Cian Roach (2 for 57).

With a mountain to climb at half-time, and their league form in a parlous condition, Ammanford dug in and began to turn things around with a reconfigured batting order.

Stephan Muller reached his half century (53) as opener, whilst skipper Rhys Davies (74) continued to lead from the front to take Ammanford to 172 for 3 with 15 overs to go.

Ammanford were at this stage some 20 runs behind the clock, but Xavier Clarke (68) had rediscovered his league form, supported by the welcome return of former club captain Alun Evans (20).

With one over (6-balls) remaining, Ammanford needed 12 runs to win.

Fahad Sabir was run out on the second ball. Returning wicket-keeper Rhodri Davies walked to the crease to join 16-year old Cellan Allcock (pictured) with the pressured task of getting Ammanford over the line.

The atmosphere around the Park was palpably tingling as Ammanford now still required 11 from the remaining 4 balls. Davies sneaked a leg-bye from the first of the remaining 4 deliveries. Newport's nervous looking leg-spinner then delivered a wide ball. This all before young Allcock nervelessly dispatched a straight four past the Newport bowler, followed by a glorious six over the leg-side boundary to win the match with one ball to spare.

The win moved Ammanford out of the Premier League relegation zone, but far more importantly displayed the talent and mentality that this team can produce.

Next week they have the chance to show it again as they travel away to bitter rivals, Pontarddulais who are themselves in second place in the Premier League standings for 2024.

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Ammanford Cricket Club | Clwb Criced Rhydaman
The Pavilion, Ammanford Park, Tir-Y-Dail Lane, Ammanford, Carmarthenshire, SA18 3AN
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