GOATACRE suffered a disappointing start to the season when they were comprehensively beaten by Lydney.

Goatacre responded well to being put into the field and Adam Iles was rewarded for a tight opening spell when he took the first wicket with only ten runs on the board. The introduction of Kevin Iles brought immediate dividends when he, aided by two good catches by Ed Wilkins, reduced Lydney to 41-3.

Rhan Heer clean bowled two batsmen, including the dangerous Whitson and the visitors were in trouble at 110-5 after 31 overs. But a partnership of 130 swung the game Lydney's way.

After a shaky start Bishop began to clear the ropes with regularity and, supported by Scott, he progressed to an unbeaten 89. Scott also reached 50 as Lydney finished on 245-6.

Goatacre started cautiously with Steve Lines and Steve Gee amassing an opening partnership of 65 in 25 overs. After their dismissals for 35 and 27 respectively the wheels fell off.

Poor shots and accurate bowling reduced them to 140-7 before captain Sam Parish ensured a third batting point with an unbeaten 21. Goatacre finished on 175-9.

Parish said he was disappointed to start the season with a loss.

"We did have a severely weakened side on Saturday but we were certainly in the game for most of it.

"Unfortunately we did not have the best luck. The ball held in the air and kept dropping between fielders and edges getting dropping wide of the slips. We had chances when we were close but nothing went to hand."

Goatacre play Redmarley this Saturday at home.

GOATACRE'S National Village Knockout Competition started off with a bang as they reduced Baydon to just 18.

John Wilkins and Rhan Heer successfully scored the required runs without the loss of a wicket. Goatacre go to Spye Park in the next round on May 22.