WEAVERHAM started their Meller Braggins Division Two campaign in record-breaking form.
The Russetts smashed the division’s record for a highest innings total which was also Weaverham’s highest ever score in the league.
But the mammoth 315-4 wasn’t enough to bring the Wallerscote Road men victory. The winning draw against Prestbury earned 16 points to the visitors’ five.
Dave Ashley stole the show with 114 with support coming from Rob Macmillan (93) and Barry Crellin (56).
Prestbury held on though and made 146-7 with James Ollier the star turn taking 4-26.
Also in Division Two, Winsford took maximum points from their home clash with Runcorn.
The Knight’s Grange side declared on 170-8 (Mike Clarke 39) and skittled out their visitors for 132 (Dave Tierney (3-19).
Barnton enjoyed a winning draw at Cholmondeley’s picturesque Castle grounds.
Asked to bat first, Barnton declared on 182-8 thanks to Paul Coot’s impressive 72, supported by Mike Sambell (28).
In reply, the Chums held on at 145-8 (Richard Watkins 4-31, Mark Wrench 3-33).
In Division One, Winnington Park opened their bid to return to the county league with a losing draw at Congleton.
Batting first the hosts declared on 241-4 (Joe Patterson 2-37) and in reply the Recreation Ground side made 185-7 with Greg McKeown starring with 53.
Northwich claimed maximum points from their opening clash at fellow new boys Barrow.
The Moss Farm side batted first and declared on 245-4 with Martin East smashing a magnificent 141, supported by skipper John O’Sullivan (29) and Mark Ribbeck (28).
In reply, Barrow had no answer and crumbled to 96 all out (Stuart Hayes 3-10, Matt Jamieson (3-9).
In a low-scoring affair at Brooks Drive, Davenham lost to Hale Barns by four wickets.
Batting first, they made just 67 – a total reached by the hosts on 71-6.
In the Cheshire Alliance Division One, Hartford had a heavy opening-day defeat, losing at home to Langley on Saturday.
The Grange Park side batted first and made just 52. Langley reached their 54-6 (Graham Prew 2-28).
