AFTER a week's delay to numerous waterlogged pitches across Merseyside, the Love Lane Liverpool Competition got underway on Saturday.

In the Premier Division, Rainford's clash with Rainhill was postponed but Newton le Willows began their season with a tough visit to reigning champions Ormskirk.

Batting first, Ormskirk were made to work hard for their total of 179-7 declared off 55 overs with left-arm spinner Ahmad Safi Abdullah taking 4-64 from his 22 overs. 

In reply, Newton's top order were blown away by Sam Marsh and Scott Lees, crumbling to 19-7 before Marc De Brabander's 37 took them to 70 all out and a crushing 109 run defeat.

Division One's game between St Helens Town and Sefton Park went ahead at Ruskin Drive but Town may have wished it hadn't after they were bowled out for just 82 allowing Park to wrap up a six wicket. 

In Division Two, Sutton travelled to Ainsdale and were looking well placed after posting a total of 170 all out thanks in the main to 86 from opener Joe Smith.

Alex Oldfield then took 3-16 from his nine overs but the hosts reached the target for the loss of six wickets.