WARRINGTON’S first away game of the new season ended on a low note as they fell to a narrow, 17-run defeat at Marple.

Having won the toss and elected to field on Sunday, their bowlers could not prevent the hosts from racking up an impressive score.

Rob Batey picked up 2-68, while Johan Els, Ashley Scholes and James Rudd all got a wicket each, but Marple ended their 50 overs on 247-5.

Openers Malcolm Agar and Mike Rudd were dismissed early in Warrington’s reply, but Els and Brad McIntosh rebuilt the innings with a partnership of 89 for the third wicket.

Els’ score of 73 led the way for Warrington, but they fell just short of victory despite contributions down the order from Sam Houghton, 31, and Batey, 28 not out.

Their next game sees them travel to Sale on Saturday.

Meanwhile, the club’s seconds batted impressively to record a five-wicket win over Bowdon.

After being asked to bat first, the visitors scored an imposing 238-9 from their 50 overs, with Ryan Swart leading the Warrington attack with figures of 3-56.

Warrington’s reply started slowly, but Alistair Begg anchored the innings with a knock of 56 before an unbeaten 52 from Ian Sleigh saw them home with one ball to spare.

The thirds also came out on top in a low-scoring affair against Oxton as neither team’s batting line-up could master a slow wicket.

After being asked to bat first, Warrington could only muster 136-8, with Dave Selvan top scoring with 30.

However, the pitch proved to be even more of a hindrance to Oxton as 3-36 from Jon Burgess helped Warrington bowl them out for just 90 in reply.

The seconds host Stockport on Saturday while the thirds play twice this weekend, travelling to neighbours Stretton on Saturday before visiting Haslington on Sunday.