Reman make a solid start in title bid

Laying a twin bogey to rest enabled one of the pre-season favourites to set an early marker on the opening day of the Marston’s Shropshire Premier League.

Reman Services had not beaten Welshpool in four attempts in Premier League action, and hadn’t won on the opening day of the season for four years.

“It was a good start for us because we haven’t been the best early on in the season,” said captain Mal Serplet. “You are always a bit worried when you lose the toss and get put in on a wet one but the lads showed good application.”

And none better than John Wigley who began the season with a half century, his 56 and 32 for Mark Davies providing the basis for Reman’s 186-7, a score boosted by a late Darren Bullock cameo which saw him strike 21 off 10 balls.A fine opening bowling spell from Shane Gwilt - who took 5-22 - ripped the heart out of the Welshpool innings as they were reduced to 30-6.

Pete Chapman’s 38 and an unbeaten 27 from skipper Evans provided some resistance but the hosts failed to recover and were bowled out for 119 with five overs remaining.

Terry Owen’s form continues to belie his advancing years and the 52-year-old helped Madeley to a 66-run victory over Ludlow.

Owen took 3-20 as the south Shropshire side fell well short in their pursuit of 137 for victory, captain Lol Woodhall also taking a trio of wickets as Ludlow were dismissed for a paltry 70.

Madeley also handed a first-team debut to young Shropshire and England disabled star Shaun Rigby, who took two catches at gully.

Earlier in the day, an unbeaten half century from John Fawcett rescued Madeley from a potentially precarious 65-5.

He joined forces with Steve Maden, who made 23, to steer the hosts up to 136-9, Ali Raza taking 3-16 on his Ludlow debut.

And, while Madeley skipper Woodhall was pleased with his side’s efforts, he also had words of consolation for the beaten visitors.

“I thought Ludlow performed well and when the wickets dry out, they will score a lot of runs,” he said.

“Although we had to bat first on a wet wicket, I actually thought we had the better of the conditions because a few balls started to pop up as it dried out.

“I was impressed with Ludlow. Steve Small captained them well, they have some good players and they took defeat on the chin.”

In the other game where play was possible, Albrighton got the better of a draw with Quatt.

Gareth Hughes pocketed the highest score of the day as he hit 72 and Darren Shimmons 47 as Albrighton racked up 184-7.

Jason Summers then claimed 4-30 to make Quatt’s task one of damage limitation as they eventually finished on 129-8.