ATHERTON CC had a third pre-season runout on Saturday but they suffered another reversal, this time against Bolton League side Heaton.
Atherton were well adrift at the end, 53 runs short, 148 all out in reply to 201-5.
The main Atherton antagonist was their former colleague Jonathon Fearick who turned in an excellent all-round display, scoring 45, followed up by 2-39 with the ball as well as taking a catch to dismiss Atherton's young hope, Karl Brown.
For the home side it was a useful first work-out for leading batsman Phil West who top scored with 47, ably assisted by wicketkeeper Phil Williamson with 30.
New skipper Paul Brown will be eagerly awaiting the arrival of professional Mihir Diwakar to add penetration to the bowling and flair to the batting. A great deal will depend on the young Indian's all-round talents when the league season opens on April 26.
This Saturday's friendly, away to Lancashire League side Haslingden; will be another stiff test for the Higham Park side.
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