DORSET maintained their unbeaten start to the South West Championships with a 9-5 win over the hosts Devon at Saunton yesterday.

Captain Giles Legg’s team, who drew 7-7 with Cornwall in their first match, got off to a flying start in the singles winning the first three games.

Jon Welch, replacing the injured Matt Hector at number one, secured the first point, while assistant captain David Cook and junior star Robbie Mabb followed suit.

Despite losing their way in the final few matches, Dorset held on for a 4½ to 3½ lead to take into the afternoon foursomes.

Dorset were quick off the mark after lunch, winning the first two games with Mabb and Daniel Bishop securing maximum points on the day.

And it was left to Cook and county champion Tom Leech to wrap up the victory with an easy 5 and 4 win in the final game.

Dorset, who have not won the South West matchplay competition since the 1970s, continue their bid tomorrow against Somerset.

Other results: Cornwall 4½ Wiltshire 7½, Gloucestershire 6½ Somerset 5½.

League positions after two matches (games won): 1 Wiltshire 2pts (16), 2 Dorset 1.5 (16), 3 Gloucester 1 (14½), 4 Devon 1 (13½), 5 Cornwall ½ (12), 6 Somerset 0 (11).

• Cook, meanwhile, will head Dorset’s six-man team in today’s South West strokeplay championship.

The top county will represent the South West at the English County Championship.

Dorset: David Cook, Tom Leech, Jon Welch, Daniel Bishop, Robbie Mabb, Tom Peacock.

For full results service visit www.dcgu.org.uk