THERE was joy for Ombersley’s Liam Gwynne but heartache for Hereford-born Worcestershire seamer Charlie Morris in the Minor Counties Cricket Association Unicorns Trophy semi-final.

The pair were on opposing sides as Devon lost a high-scoring clash against Herefordshire at Sidmouth by two wickets with three balls remaining.

Gwynne had a major influence in Herefordshire’s triumph after striking a rapid 64, containing 10 fours, from just 55 deliveries.

Former Worcestershire duo Matt Pardoe and Neil Pinner were also in the Herefordshire side who will now meet Kadeer Ali’s Staffordshire in the final next month.

Pinner took 1-33 from six overs and Pardoe finished with 0-34 from 10 as Devon racked up a challenging 282-9 from their allotted 50 overs. Morris, who batted at number 11 hit an unbeaten four.

Despite dismissing Pardoe for five, Morris conceded 1-57 from his eight overs as Herefordshire edged home to secure their first final in the competition since 2000.

Morris has been struggling for form this summer with Worcestershire and remodelled his bowing action.

Former Worcestershire player Kadeer captained Staffordshire to a 50-run win over Dorset in the other semi-final, hitting 45 and taking 1-25 from eight overs.

The final will take place at the picturesque Wormsley ground created by Sir Paul Getty near High Wycombe on August 24.