Hartlepool Cricket Club’s Over 40s side lost out at Billingham Synthonia in their opening Masters Group B game.

After winning the toss, Synthonia got off to a steady start thanks to openers Michael Bargewell-Cook and James Manners.

Former Hartlepool United centre-half Andy Davies had no trouble adapting to the smaller ball and made the breakthrough, trapping Manners leg before wicket for 19.

Fellow opener Bargewell-Cook went on to hit a fine half century before retiring.

Chris Smith enjoyed a fine, economic spell with the ball and was unlucky not to pick up a wicket or two.

Dave Scott was the other wicket taker after Chris Moore was caught by Rob Snowball for a hard-hitting 40.

Synthonia closed their innings on 170 from their allotted 20 overs.

In reply, openers Robbie Sanger and Paul Jackson got Hartlepool off to a flying start before the latter was bowled for 12 after a fine delivery from Mark Bartley.

The game was then interrupted by rain and after resuming, Hartlepool were set a revised target of 134 from 15 overs.

Stuart Salvin (13) and St John Callaghan (18 not out) both batted well but star of the show was Sanger who finished on 39 not out.

Hartlepool closed their innings on 92.

Next up is a home game against Norton at Park Drive on Friday 11 July, starting at 6pm.