ABERGELE opened their North Wales Cricket League Division One campaign with a narrow 17-run reverse at Dolgellau.

Their strong performance in the field was not matched during their time at the crease to fall agonisingly short of an opening day triumph, and Gele will be hoping for better fortune next Saturday when they make the trip to Llay Welfare.

The away side got off to an impressive start with the ball as Owen Lynam disposed of opener Gareth Lanagan for seven, while debutant Lewis Toland wasted no time in making an impact with the quick-fire wickets of wicketkeeper Tom Kistruck (4) and Callum Taylor (2).

Ed Rooney also got in on the hand to take out the dangerous Sam Williams for just nine, and the outstanding Toland continued his superb spell with the wickets of Sach Patel (16), captain Phil Leeds (3) and Jack Williamson (0) on his way to impressive final figures of 5-25 from his 12 overs.

He was assisted by the consistent performance of Lynam at the other end, and the seamer added opener Sion Francis (20) to his collection to end on 2-30 from 10 overs.

Rooney (2-21) and Karl Higgins (1-7) rounded off the wickets as the hosts ended on 109 all out from 36 overs.

Despite a valiant effort to reach their required target, the visitors were unable to come up with the goods and finished all out on 92 after 34 overs to begin their season with a loss.