Champions start with win

CRICKET: TITLE holders Heyside under-15s got off to a winning start at Saddleworth ‘B’ in the Saddleworth and District Cricket League.

An unbeaten half century from David Percival helped them reach 135 for three.

The hosts could only muster 77 for six in their 20 overs.

Royton, making their debut in this league, got the better of Bamford Fieldhouse. Their total of 117 proved too strong as the hosts replied with 79.

Shaw ‘B’ made an impressive start to the campaign against a brave Stayley team.

A Harrison's 50 not out (retired) put Shaw ‘B’ on track for 148 for three and despite a valiant effort from Stayley, they were all out for 90.

At Holebottom Clough, Shaw ‘A’ had to settle for a draw as bad light prevented their game against Uppermill from finishing.

Joe Burgoyne's 50 not out (retired) ensured Shaw ‘A’ reached a substantial total of 149 for six after 20 overs.

Uppermill, in fading light and with tight bowling from the home team, reached 44 for four in 12 overs before the umpires ruled it was too dark.

Moorside clinched a narrow victory at Droylsden in a low-scoring but tense game. Restricting the visitors to 88 for three (J Taylor 52 not out, retired) Droylsden would have been confident of reaching the target.

But tight bowling and good fielding meant the hosts fell five runs short despite 39 from Dane Cullen.

Austerlands and Glodwick took the points as their respective opponents Saddleworth ‘A’ and Friarmere were both unable to raise teams.

In the under-13s group, Bamford made 132 but Uppermill could only muster 42 before they were dismissed.

Moorside were 52 all out before opponents Glodwick crawled to 50 for seven in their 20 overs.

Austerlands v Shaw, Saddleworth ‘B’ v Stalybridge St Paul’s and Royton v Saddleworth ‘A’ were rained off. Stayley couldn’t raise a team against Heyside.

On Sunday, Shaw host Stayley, Moorside face Austerlands, Heyside take on Bamford, Glodwick go to Droylsden and Stalybridge St Paul’s are at home to Royton.