York Senior: Early success for promotion favourites

Reigning Champions Woodhouse Grange recovered from 10-2, at home to Hull Zingari, thanks to a stand of 98 between Christopher Bilton (72) and Tom Young (49). Captain Steve Burdett then gave the innings late impetus with 33 from only 16 balls, as his side closed on 223-7.

Opener Jack Storey hit 61) but David Suddaby and Nick Hadfield both picked up four wickets as Zingari were dismissed for 170.

Last year’s runners-up Easingwold got the better of a draw at Beverley Town where Mark Haines hit 94 as the visitors made 206-9.

The home side led by Jon Vodden (54no) and Ollie Grantham (43) got within 19 runs of victory.

League newcomers Scarborough provided early evidence that they will be a force to be reckoned by beating another much fancied side, Studley Royal, by 136 runs.

Clifton Alliance made the day’s highest total (278-3) at Dunnington before David Friend (6-40) bowled the visitors to victory by 177 runs.

Both last season’s promoted sides recorded opening day victories. Last year’s division one champions Heworth made a winning start at home to York II.

Despite four wickets each for Matthew Hodsdon (4-90) and Mike Mortimer (4-35) the home side posted an imposing 268-9.

Oliver Sherwood top scored with 87 sharing a 99 run partnership with Salman Syed (47) who then added a further 61 with Tom Neal (39).

In reply, only Danny Murty (41) and Jonathan Moxon (35) managed double figures, Syed completing an excellent all-round performance with 4-25, and Richard Walton took 4-30 as the visitors lost their last four wickets for just three runs.

Acomb who finished as runners-up to Heworth began with a visit from Fenner and made a solid start to the campaign, Joe Dale (69no), Harry Booth (40) and Aidan Burton (38) all made contributions as the home side chased down 181 for victory winning by five wickets.

Earlier in the day, William Parker (76) and Ben Hatfield (28) both batted well but Andrew Brewster (4-55) and Mark Bell (3-37) kept the visitors in check.

Sheriff Hutton Bridge were the day’s other winners beating Stamford Bridge by eight wickets.

Dominic Rhodes made 80 in a total of 183-7 for the visitors, which SHB chased down easily thanks to Adam Fisher (74no) and Robert Pinder (68no).