THE showers failed to prevent Bristol Phoenix from completing an emphatic win against Weston-super-Mare on Sunday.

Batting first, Phoenix made an indifferent start and were soon in trouble at 19-3. However, a blistering partnership of 65 in just ten overs between Abi Evans (37) and Lauren Rowles (26) set the innings up for a big score, before both players were dismissed in successive balls.

A short rebuild by Alex MacDonald and Tilly Line, followed by acceleration, saw the total mount quickly as both batters were severe on anything short. The dismissal of Line for 31 merely allowed Carys Allen (19*) to join MacDonald in a final blaze of boundaries to drive the Phoenix total to an impressive 216-8 in only 32 overs, with Macdonald completing a splendid unbeaten 50.

Weston failed to get to grips with a varied Phoenix attack and with wickets falling regularly were always behind the required rate. Skipper Sam Brazier, with 3-10 from seven impressive overs, led the way, well supported by Macdonald (3-13), Evans (2-3) and Allen (1-14).

This will give Phoenix confidence for their table topping clash with Plympton next week.