COLWYN Bay picked up a huge morale boosting double to kick-start their league and cup campaign.

Sion Morris’ men opened with an impressive seven wicket home triumph over Liverpool and District Cricket League Premier Division rivals Leigh, before advancing in the Welsh Cup thanks to an eight wicket success over Gresford 24 hours later.

Bay bowler Ryan Holtby wasted no time in making an impact with the new ball during their first clash of the weekend, producing a memorable spell to help himself to four wickets for the loss of 40 runs.

The ultra-consistent Paul Jenkins also continued his excellent start to the season with figures of 4-16 from just five over, while Gareth Goodson took a pair for the loss of 26 as the away side set a target of 93 all out.

Despite losing opener Zak Gidlow (6) early on, double figure scores from Pat Leach (26), Dineth Hewathanthree (15), George Johansen (29*) and Adam Campion (17*) ensured they reached their target with minimal fuss after 24 overs at the crease.

They continued this strong level of performance in their first cup tie of the season, with the Bay bowling attack restricting their opponents to 144 all out thanks to good spells from Shaun Davies, Morris and Campion.

Gidlow again struggled at the crease with a knock of 14, but Leach brought his side back into the contest with a superb 44 before he was eventually dismissed by Simon Perry.

This was swiftly followed by an unbeaten 42 from Johansen which put the hosts in the driving seat, with Campion hitting 17 not out as they sealed a comfortable win after 22 overs.

There was further cause for celebration as Bay’s second unit secured a three-wicket victory at Leigh, with Davies smashing 84 unbeaten in the success.