Little Hulton skipper Rob Clews rapped his batsmen as the champions slumped to a five wicket defeat at the hands of Elton.

But the Little Hulton cause was not helped by pro Tim O'Sullivan, who batted despite having broken fingers on his left hand.

Clews was hoping to see his side off to a winning start but said: "Our batting was disgrace. We were rubbish."

They collapsed from 25-1 to 33-6 as Elton bowlers Foy (4-40), Filkins 3-13 and Williams 3-28 tore the batting apart,

O'Sullivan batted down the order, retired for a time but as wickets tumbled, bravely went back the the crease, where he scored a stubborn 11 not out.

Clews added: "The only good thing about this is that it has happened at the right time. We have the rest of the season in front of us and if we had any complacency, then this should have kicked us out of it.

"And on a brighter note at least we have as many points as Clifton."

Clifton had no match yesterday!

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