HAYDOCK first team suffered their first defeat of the season in the Southport and District League on Saturday at the hands of Burscough.

Haydock lost the toss and were put into bat but never looked in control. Only a sixth wicket stand of 47 between Craig Gardiner and David Cross, who went on to make 37, gave the innings a hint of respectability as Haydock limped to 100 all out.

After tea it was uphill for Haydock and although they bowled well, Burscough reached their target for the loss of only three wickets. Andrew Bentham took 2-19, while Ian Brown, on his return to the first team after a knee injury, bowled well with little joy.

At Lyme Park the second XI entertained Burscough and after a sticky start rallied to 181 for 7. Barry Cross (53) and Andy Martin with a hard-hitting 47 not out were the stars of the Haydock innings.

After the interval though Burscough slowly took control and ran out victors with 182 for 3.

The third XI had the better of their match against Ashworth. Haydock made 177 for 9 with 16-year-old Danny Rimmer scoring 66 not out and under-15 Kieran Parkinson chipping in with a quickfire 20. But Haydock couldn't quite finish the game as Ashworth closed on 145- 8, John Pye 3-42.

On Sunday the 3rd XI had a resounding cup victory over Tarleton. Batting first, Haydock scored 138-9 as Derek Gibson top scored with 81. In reply, Tarleton were all out for 89. Pick of the bowlers were Pete McShane (3-12), Tony Duncan (3-29) and Paul Reid (2-10).

All junior matches were rained off this week. However, the highlight for the club came last Saturday when Caroline Bentham and Claire Toole were selected to play for Lancashire under-15 girls against Durham. Lancashire won by 80 runs.