NORMALLY reliable batsmen let Weaverham down as they fell woefully short of an achievable target.

New skipper Rob McMillan got his own season off to an auspicious start, taking 6-53, and with Allen Bell (1-20) and Gordon Allen (2-56) Mere were restricted.

Openers Dave Holden (44) and Rob Harrison (20) putting on 40 for the first wicket to provide a solid base for the innings.

But then a series of poor shots saw Weaverham collapse to 101 all out with McMillan (22) making the only other telling contribution.

Phil Harris (52), Brian Rogerson (41), Max Fraser (24), Chris Heptonsall (24) and Rob Dickinson (23) ensured Alvanley faced a difficult task in the 2nds' clash.

Weaverham made 196-8 and Alvanley battled back to 163-9 after Kenny Roberts (4-52) whipped through the top order. Rogerson took 3-31.