SETTLE finally started their Ribblesdale League season with an edgy home win over Senior League newcomers Feniscowles.

The visitors belied the 43 places they stood below Settle last season, having been allocated new status after signing the overseas amateur Jacques Snyman.

After Will Davidson had executed a run out to claim the first wicket, Snyman (57) shared a 124-run partnership with Jake Errey.

They exploited Settle's sub pro Abdul Ameer’s unfamiliarity with early-season English conditions. However, the pair were the only batsmen to reach double figures as the spin of Asif Fazal (5-33) dragged Settle back into the game. He was backed up by 3-27 from new skipper Tom Davidson, as Feniscowles were all out for 174.

The hosts addressed the challenging total with steady knocks from Fazal (19) and new signing Tabassum Aziz (20) and looked to be further on track as the middle order of Will and Tom Davidson (35 and 38) set about the bowling attack.

The brothers’ departure then put pressure on the lower order with an embarrassing home defeat very much on the cards, but veteran David Worthington came to the rescue, smashing 26 unbeaten runs from 12 deliveries to secure a two-wicket win with five balls to spare.

Settle’s Bank Holiday matches comprise Baxenden away on Saturday, followed by Whalley at home on Sunday in the Ramsbottom Cup.

Earby suffered a 55-run defeat in their clash with Euxton. Their opponents made 184 with Andrew Winrow (44) and Matthew Johnson (42no) leading the way despite the efforts of Jason Lockley 4-53.

Earby struggled against the bowling of Ghurav Dhar (5-39) as they were dismissed for 129. Matt Wilson made the top score of 39.

Earby will be hoping for better fortune as they visit Osbaldtwistle in the league and Cherry Tree in the cup.