OULTON Park opened their Cheshire County League campaign with a superb batting performance on Saturday but it was not enough for victory.
Park skipper Nathan Dumelow led the way with 141 while Cuddington batsman Danny Leech hit 68 in a total of 305-7 declared.
Visiting Widnes were undaunted though and smacked 311-8 to take the maximum 20 points. Robin Taylor picked up 4-57.
Dumelow said: “We are disappointed to lose but it was a fantastic game of cricket. For anyone watching you could not ask for better.
“To be fair Widnes played well, their number eight came and hit 85 off 60 balls.
“I didn’t think I batted brilliantly but I gave myself a chance. With a young side, it’s important for senior players to pull their weight.”
Oulton will look to bounce back on Saturday when they visit Knutsford side Toft (12.30pm).
“There are no easy games in this league,” added Dumelow. “But we won’t change much as we didn’t do anything wrong.”
Oakmere were whitewashed in their first ever County League fixture. The Overdale Lane side failed to earn a point after hosts Bollington bowled them out for a mere 47. Bolly hit the required runs without loss.
They host Sale on Saturday (1pm).
