HORWICH became the first team to win through to the second round of the Anthony Axford Indoor Trophy on Sunday with a 29-run victory over Bradshaw.

But the opening day of the competition was marred by the late withdrawals of Astley Bridge and seven-time winners Walkden.

After both clubs failed to produce a team, their respective opponents, Greenmount and Westhoughton, were handed walkover victories.

There was no shortage of good cricket played in the day's only match.

Bradshaw, who last won the trophy in 1998, won the toss and put Horwich in to bat.

But they were soon made to regret that move as the competition's first ever champions, when it began in 1978, went on to make 116-4 off their 12 overs.

Phil Cavill played a captain's innings for Horwich, ending unbeaten on 41, while he was given great support from Tom Billington, who made 20, and Ryan Chaisty, who finished on 26 not out.

Bradshaw's only successful bowler was Phil Dickinson, who took 1-28 from his three overs.

The Horwich attack also struggled in their opening two overs, conceding seven extras through wides and no balls.

But when their bowlers found line and length they provided the Bradshaw batsmen with plenty to think about.

Marcus Platt produced some good tight bowling to take1-14 from his three overs, while Raki Mahmood ended with 2-13 from his three overs.

That spell helped to see Horwich home as Bradshaw were dismissed for 87.

Martin Kay top scored for the Rigby's outfit with 29, while Jon Kerrigan hit four fours in his total of 19 before being caught and Nick Lester made 17.

The remaining first round fixtures will be played on Sunday when Tonge take on Eagley at 12.30pm, Heaton play Farnworth at 1.45pm and Little Lever face Kearsley at 3pm.

The second round will take place on January 18, when Bolton League champions Farnworth Social Circle and the indoor competition title holders Egerton join the fray.

Second round fixtures

January 18: Second round - 12.30pm Greenmount v Westhoughton, 1.45pm Heaton/Farnworth v Egerton, 3.15pm Horwich v Little Lever/Kearsley, 4.45pm Farnworth Social Circle v Tonge/Eagley.

The finals day, including both semi-finals and final, will take place on Sunday, January 25.