ASHTON-on-Mersey’s Cheshire Cricket League Division One campaign began with a high-scoring draw at Barnton.

Choosing to bowl first on a superb batting track, Ashton’s cricket fell well short of their normal standard as chances were missed on a cold day.

Paul Coot took advantage for the home side with a well complied 79 but the batting honours went to Adam Garrod who hit an unbeaten 109.

Barnton's total of 274-3 was at least 30 runs more than a sharper fielding performance would have allowed.

Ashton began a thrilling run chase with Alex O’Gara’s 73 leading the way.

Demonstrating the depth of their batting, Ashton kept up with the run rate despite the fall of wickets. But overs ran out with the visitors just 18 runs short of what would have been a famous victory on 256-8.

Ashton will be looking for a far better performance in the field next week when they welcome Lymm OP to The Beets.

Meanwhile, the Ashton second XI (230-6) posted a four-wicket win against Lindow (229-8).

Teenager Aidan Barratt marked his senior debut with a valuable 19 in the run chase.