PROMOTED Davenham made an early mark on Vivio Cheshire County League Division One with a slender 15-run success on the ground of neighbours Middlewich.

The visitors batted first after losing the toss, posting a modest 122 all out with only Dave Ashley (45) and Jonny Price (28no) making contributions of note as Gavin Tomlinson returned figures of 4-48.

New recruit, Kiwi Jordie Gibbons, claimed 3-17 and Stuart Price 3-22.

Middlewich succumbed for 107 in reply, with Jamie Williams (36) and Tom Shepherd (32) their leading scorers as Dean Jackson claimed a five-wicket haul.

Ben Gough (4-27) provided capable support.

Macclesfield eased to a six-wicket win at fancied Oulton Park, who they dismissed for 141.

Lois Bentley (57) scored a half-century, while Sultan Raja (4-9) did the damage.

New captain Nick Ross (67no) led the visitors’ successful chase to 142-4, with Andrew Hards (2-44) the pick of the hosts’ attack.

Sam Shepherd was match-winner for Northwich in Division Two on their return to the county league after an 18-year hiatus.

He took 7-39 to knock over relegated Heaton Mersey for 97 at Moss Farm, where the home team had stumbled to 121 all out earlier in the afternoon.

Glinoj Cherian (42), who put on 52 for the second wicket with Lee Evans, and captain Mark Walker (38no) were the only batsmen to shine.

Shery Hasson took 4-23 for the visitors.