WEEK 1 – 17TH MARCH Alsager Pool League cued off its 38th season on Tuesday with 32 teams across 4 divisions harbouring thoughts of honours come November. Surprisingly, 75% of matches ended 7-3 or better, evenly spread. Champions, Crompo’s came from 2-2 to hit last season’s division two runners-up Cricketeres for a straight six in their 8-2 win. Runners-up Radway A were dealt a 7-3 defeat at Dishers who clinically punished the visitors with their first and every mistake. Linley Ballers, with a scratch four, left Swan Talke A 9-1 winners. Division two champions Players B matched their A team until Dave Jackson and Andy Blurton won the lag and 8-balled from break in the last two frames. High flyers Red Lion, who just fell short in division two last time commenced this season’s campaign with a 7-3 success at new team, back in Britannia. Likewise, Kings Arms fared no better as they slumped to an 8-2 home defeat to relegated Nuts N Bolt. Division threes promoted sides met with runners-up Swan Bignall End keeping up the away win sequence at champions Royal Oak Miles Green 8-2. Linley Tavern and Thistleberry, who finished mid-table level on points played out a predictable draw. In division three, it was no laughing matter for new team Barrel as a strengthened Royal Oak Nomads equalled last season’s win tally with an 8-2 success. Crown Red Street saw off the challenge of Swan Talke B 7-3. Kidsgrove WMC fared likewise in the Kidsgrove derby against Labour Club A. Broughton Arms had to settle for a 5-5 draw against Crown & Thistle. Division four’s Kidsgrove Labour B defeated neighbours Queens Haz Beans 7-3. Butchers Arms A and B played out a thrilling 5-5 draw. There was no luck however for our two new sides as Alsager Arms made the short distance to Radway B and were beaten 8-2. It was the same score at Clough Hall as on song Sandpiper came away victorious.