Barrow Cricket Club began their Northern Premier League season with a six-wicket defeat away at Garstang last Saturday, following a below-par batting display.

After winning the toss and electing to bat, Barrow’s innings at the Riverside Sports Ground actually got off to a solid start, with opener Justin Pringle making a half-century.

However, he was to become one of seven victims of Garstang bowler Michael Walling, who ended with stunning figures of 7-36 from his 16.3 overs.

Barrow were eventually bowled out for just 128 in the 41st over, with only an unbeaten 21 from tail-ender Gary Collins preventing an even lower total.

Captain Daryl Wearing, Sam Henderson and Dan Adams all recorded ducks for the visitors.

They did, however, manage to claim an early wicket when Toby Mowat trapped Mark Winstanley lbw, only for fellow Garstang opener Walling to steady the ship with 36.

It was his partnership with captain Mark Walling, who finished unbeaten on 44, that proved crucial in the home side’s run chase.

This was completed in just the 32nd over, wicketkeeper Matthew Crowther helped them over the line.

Barrow will have two chances at home to bounce back from this opening-day disappointment, as they welcome welcome Netherfield to Ernest Pass on Saturday, before Fleetwood visit on May 4.