ABERGELE are still searching for their first North Wales Cricket League Division One victory of the new season following a 78-run home defeat to Gwersyllt Park.

The visitors set a modest total of 209 all out from almost all of their allotted 50 overs, with their final batsman removed with just two balls to spare.

Jake James led the way with a stylish knock of 61 before he was eventually sent back to the pavilion by Mike Thompson, with captain Lee Beer also producing a standout performance on his way to 60 off 101 deliveries.

Another double-figure score of note came from Lewis Cole’s unbeaten 37, with Owen Lynam the pick of the Gele bowlers after picking up three wickets for the loss of 47 runs.

The home side never got close to reaching their required total as Ben Garnett (2), David Williams (12), Lewis Tolond (5) and Thomson (2) all dismissed early on.

David Moulson’s struggles in the middle continued when he was caught and bowled by James for three, and he was swiftly followed by Josh Lloyd (5) and Karl Higgins (1) from the disappointing middle order.

The one constant throughout was wicketkeeper Gareth Edwards, who managed to secure a knock of 44 until a Cole delivery was caught by Ian Pearson, and Ed Rooney finished unbeaten on 22 as the hosts mustered 131 all out from 37 overs.

Gele will look to finally kick-start their season this Saturday when they travel to Llay Welfare on Saturday.