Reigning champions Red Lion Penyffordd got off the mark in this year’s Chester and District Midweek League Division One with a 48-run success over Kingsley Knights.

Ali Roberts hit 50 not out for Mike Roberts’ side in their 138 for five, before Kingsley were dismissed in reply for 90.

Usman Butt struck a half century for leaders Mold in their 10-wicket win over Marchwiel and Wrexham, scoring 138 without loss after Marchwiel had earlier posted 137 for two, Ironshan De Silva hitting 50 not out.

Academicals (96-4) overcame Llay Welfare (95-8) while Hawarden Park (109ao) lost out to Tarporley (173-4).

In Division Two, half-centuries from Matthew Turner and Joss Roberts saw Brymbo Brymbo (145-2) complete a 24-run success at Saughall (121-7).

Mike Jones made 50 not out for Golden Eagle (134-4) as they chased down Mynydd Isa’ 133 for eight, Steve Holland earlier taking 3-27.

Chester Lions (114-5) defeated West Cheshire Crossbatters (133-7) while Cornerhouse (157-2) beat Harry Groves CC (111-7).

Halkyn (118-3) beat Manor Athletic (116ao) in Division Three, while Gwersyllt’s commanding 167 for eight was enough to beat West Cheshire College (146-6).

In Division Four, Jack Kennedy’s 50 not out saw Northop Hall (132-4) beat Oakmere (128-6) by four runs, while Abergele amassed 191 for three before bowling Bromborough out for 98, as David Moulson picking up a superb 7-10.

In Division Five, Kinnerton (154-5) couldn’t quite chase down Bank of America’s 158, while Shotton (138-6) were undone by Oak Tree Outlaws (139-1).

In Division Six, Joel Sampson made 50 unbeaten for Buckley as they brushed MP Plumbing aside by 10-wickets and Chester Taverners (103-4) defeated Defib (99-3).