AMPORT got their season off to a disappointing start with a loss to Easton and Martyr Worthy.

New skipper Ian Langdown decided to field first on what appeared a bowler friendly pitch but the Easton top order batted with patience and sense as they slowly kept the board ticking over.

The Amport bowlers dug deep throughout the 45 overs, and their hard work paid off as they all picked up wickets, Brandon Smith, Dean Woodhouse and Adie Holwell picking up one each with Langdon bagging two and Leighton Bone three.

At tea, Easton were 209-9, and Amport would have felt that was 30 more than they should have managed.

In reply they stumbled as Dan Holwell went early but Langdown and new player Edd Sutthrey put a strong stand together before Langdown was inexplicably bowled off a full toss for 18, with the score on 42.

Sutthrey followed soon afterwards for 18 as well, and Amport’s middle order of Nick Bone (31) and Adie Holwell (19) were left to steady the ship.

With the score on 92 from 25 overs, the stage was set for a good run chase, however, both Bone and Holwell fell quickly, and Amport were never able to pick up the rate in the required way.

Lee Ayers did as well as possible in the circumstances with a quick 25, but when he fell, Amport were left to bat as long as possible and see where it took them.

They finally closed on 164, some way short of the total, and with much to think about for the next game versus table toppers Basingstoke.