Durham Coast League: It is easy to see why Bill Quay will be one of the stronger sides this season. Signing the experienced Chris Pleasants was an astute move and the medium pacer, who has served Felling so well over many years, was quickly into form in his new surroundings.

Pleasants, who claimed an abundance of wickets in the Durham Senior League last summer opened with an impressive seven-wicket haul for his new club as Boldon were sent back for only 139 on the board which included 41 by opener David Jones.

The modest target was never a problem. Captain Jeff Tudor (30) and Will Gardner (35) gave the innings a good start and the victory march was maintained by David Hunt and Phil Bentham.

The match of the day between champions Murton and Ryhope ended in a draw. After the home team realised 184-9, Ryhope stuttered to 84 for the loss of half their wickets. Gary Robson (32) and newcomer Shaun Smith (46) both showed early form and Shaun Bradbury contributed 38 to the Murton total. Paul Watson (4-48) and Phil Bennett (3-32) shared most of the wickets.

James Taylor was outstanding for Seaham Park at Silksworth where he claimed six for 18 in 10.2 overs. The Wearsiders managed only 112 but pegged Park to 82 -8 as four bowlers, Steve Hanson, Stephen Wright, Chris Pringle and David Tait, each took two wickets.

Peterlee struggled to 76-8 in their home game with Houghton and were grateful to a match-saving innings of 30 by Dale Butler. Paul Elliott almost won the game for Houghton with 4-28.

Gary Robinson impressed with the bat for Houghton making 61 in a total of 143-6 in 50 overs. Peterlee's new captain Gary Unitt began well and his 18-over stint cost just 46 runs for four wickets.

Castle Eden were in trouble at Dawdon with their last pair together. Shoaib Akhtar and Michael Watson shared seven wickets as the visitors ended on 104-9 thanks to 31 by John Spellman junior.

Alan Unsworth was the bowler who caused Dawdon most problems with four for 15 in 13 overs, the home side managed only 125 all out after almost 50 overs at the wicket.