The Wiganers had to travel to The Rookery on Saturday and Sunday and whilst they claimed a nail biting win on Saturday they were dumped out of the cup the following day.

A fine bowling display wasn't enough to claim victory after a top order collapse. Goose Green made 104 all out with wickets from Carl Foster, Phil Jones, Mike Mills and David Foster.

In reply Churchtown started badly and were farcically 17 for 5. Skipper Carl Foster led the fightback, but it proved in vain as Churchtown were bowled out for just 99. Nine bonus points softened the blow of the defeat before the first club social of the season took place.

Revenge wasn’t long in coming as Churchtown swept aside Goose Green in the Pochin Cup on Sunday. Mike Watson and Eddie Bancroft were on top form with the ball as the visitors made only 122 all out on the front pitch of The Rookery.

It took Churchtown just 19 overs to reach their target with Greg Pennington (70) and Ryan Buck (34) doing the damage in a solid opening stand. Huge credit goes to Buck in particular who stepped in at the last minute to open as Carl Jackson was struggling to find a helmet to fit.

Thankfully the new XXL Masuri helmet was located and Carl Jackson entered the fray to hit the winning runs as Churchtown eased to a nine wicket victory.

Churchtown are at home in the Quarter Finals to Earlestown, much to the annoyance of several players who will again struggle to get down the stair after two games in a weekend.

This Saturday Carl Foster takes his side on the Ferry to Birkenhead St Mary’s.

Off the field Churchtown have been busy in recent weeks preparing for the new season with work on the sightscreens and equipment room. Several new players have been recruited and Carl Foster has taken over the captaincy after 11 years’ fine guidance under Eddie Bancroft.