Somerset 'Old Boys' emphatically avenged last year's defeat to Harris Bay to win the historic 50th anniversary match at Harris Bay Field yesterday, writes Colin Thompson.

After yesterday's torrential midday rains had subsided, it was Somerset who were left celebrating well into the night after this nine-wicket thrashing of their rivals.

Charity was also the day's big winner, as donations collected during the match will now go towards the Faith Tabernacle Church Foundation.

"Despite the inclement weather it was a good turnout," said former Somerset Cup Match player Kevin Saunders who seized three wickets for a mere six runs and then stroked an unbeaten 18.

"The game began around 2.15 p.m. because it rained from 11 a.m. to after 1 p.m. so we decided to take lunch.

"After we dismissed Harris Bay for 150, Jerry-Lynn (Simons) took hold of everybody!

"We had like 50 runs on the board after only four or five overs and he made 46 of those runs himself."

Umpires James Swan - another former Somerset Cup Match player - and his colleague, former Cleveland player Stephen Douglas were also praised.

"They did very good umpiring for the day," said Saunders.

Winning the toss, Harris Bay must have figured on getting their runs first just in case the rains returned, however, the only thing that fell at a regular rate were their wickets, as Somerset skipper Bernard Brangman spearheaded the attack. He finished with superb figures of four for 37, while in addition to Saunder's three-wicket haul, Arnold Smith and Simons also had a wicket apiece.

Maxwell Musson led Harris Bay's batting with a top knock of 46, while Sinclair Archibald managed an equally fine 32 and Dean Smith 23.

In reply, Somerset easily reached their target with nine wickets in hand, Simons leading the way with a brutal 68, while John Breamar (48 not out) and Saunders were still at the crease only moments before the celebrations began.