MIKE Covill struck a ton as Farley cruised to a seven-wicket win at home to Damerham to jump into second place in Regional Division One (West).

The home skipper, who is in a prolific mood this season, hit 105 which saw his side glide pass Damerham 204-8 with seven overs to spare. There were fine contributions too from Simon Wakeford (42) and BJ Cole (30).

Farley had been a little sluggish at first in the field, struggling to control the prodigious swing in the humid conditions. Geoff Ramsey showed the younger seamers the way, grabbing two quick wickets – one courtesy of a stunning catch at point from Jake Hand – to reduce Damerham from 57-1 to 75-4.

Henry Gilbert (44) rebuilt, with James Vincent (34) providing valuable support. But once Vincent was stumped, Damerham were unable to accelerate, despite a valiant 37* from Hacon Edgeley. The final total looked below par, Farley’s batsmen made sure it was.

There were plenty of runs for Farley second team too, who recorded a 95 run win at Ampfield II.

Pete Hillman led the way with 54 – his first league 50 – after Andy Stagg (48) and Ian Swain (34) had laid the platform. Keith Redding then stepped on the gas in partnership with son Andy, helping Farley to 242-4.

Ampfield's reply got off to the worst possible start, with a baffling run out from the first ball. Wickets fell steadily thereafter, before 13-year-old Eddie Stagg proved too quick for the tail.

Stagg finished with 4-36 as Ampfield were dismissed for 147.