HORNDON-ON-THE-HILL made a barnstorming start to the season as they demolished Old Southendian & Southchurch in their Shepherd Neame Essex League Division Two opener.

The Old Boys were dismissed for just 45 runs, largely thanks to the excellent work of bowling duo Jack Marson and Connor Hammond.

They ended with figures of 4-21 and 5-22 respectively on Saturday as Horndon emerged 10 wicket winners.

Chris Bunce was the only Old Boys batsman to reach double figures on a day to forget.

The only thing that could stop Horndon from picking up an opening day win was the rain, but opening batsmen Jack Walsh (15 not out) and Tom Stone (30 not out) wasted no time in chasing down the slim total in just six overs.

The 3s made an immediate impression in Third XI Division Three with a four wicket win against Walthamstow.

This was despite Walthamstow’s hefty 261/6, having lost the toss.

Peter Clark was the pick of the bowlers (3-16) and the response didn’t get off to the best start as Paul Collis departed for a duck.

But Mark Witts (72), Paul Challis (59), Jason Pike (53) and Paul Gammon (28) saw Horndon home.