Ronaldsway Blockbusters got their campaign off to an impressive start last Sunday in the Cherry Orchard League, beating Douglas Destroyers 7-2.

The Blockbusters, who finished as runners-up last season got off to a flying start with Josh Ffrench returning to action with a 20-4 victory over James Teare. Captain Chris Holland followed that up with a 21-6 win against Eddie Teare before Stephen Bradley got the Destroyers only points with a 10-5 win against Seamus Whelan. In the triples, Blockbusters took the match 8-3 to round off a superb first day.

Last season defending champions Douglas Bay Pirates also got going with a 7-2 victory over Douglas Townies. Michael Collister beat Eric Maddocks 16-4 & Stephen Gale won 14-8 over Jayne Smith. Bernie Kaighin beat newcomer Tom Kelly 13-5 to claim 2 points for Douglas Townies. The Pirates then went on to score two 6’s in the triples to run out 15-7 winners.

Laxey Minors also had a good solid start to the season with a 7-2 win over Colby. Archie Collister beat Rita Woodworth 21-7 and David Cottier won 18-4 over Sylvia Maddrell to get the Lazey side going. Ann Hollingworth hit back for Colby with an 18-4 victory over Wyn Collister. With points up for grab in the triples, it was the Laxey Minors who prevailed with a 5-4 win in a tightly fought game.

Completing the pattern of 7-2 scorelines was Erin Elite, as the beat Ballaugh. Bernie Durcan beat Tony Quine 10-6 in the opening match before Ann Gale had a 26-5 victory over Sheila Durcan. Steve Durcan dominated his match against Richard Faragher to win 22-1. The triples saw the side from the South come from behind to win 8-4 to claim the 7-2 victory.

Next week is match day 2 of the Cherry Orchard League with Laxey Minors facing Erin Elite, Ballaugh take on Douglas Destroyers, Douglas Townies meet Ronaldsway Blockbusters and Colby play Douglas Bay Pirates.