RAINFORD made a successful start last Saturday winning their Ray Digman Trophy cup tie against Old Xaverians by a convincing 143 runs.

Batting first, openers Dave Tully (30) and Joe Noctor (47) set the foundations with a 62 run partnership before Paul Farrar made an immediate impact with a match winning innings.

The new signing from Warrington hit 150 off 111 balls including 6 sixes and 17 fours. Tom Brimelow (31 not out) and John Dotters (33 not out) pressed home the advantage before the innings closed on 345 for 3.

Andrew Rose (66) and Josh Dilworth (66 not out) fought back for Old Xavs but the task was ultimately beyond them. Stephen Birkett, Joe Bibby and Joe Noctor each took a couple of wickets as the visitors were dismissed for 202.

In the 2nd X1 reverse fixture for the Chester cup Old Xaverians came out on top after being bowled out for 135, Phil Curran taking 4 for 15 and Andrew Harrison (3 for 19).

Rainford were bowled out for 114 with Ollie Lawrenson top scoring with 22 and Steve Harrison chipping in with 20.