CARLTON II's finally got their season going with an impressive performance against one of the better teams in the division, Rowntrees.

After Rowntrees had bowled their previous two opposing teams out for 50 and 70 respectively, Carlton's batsman knew they had to perform.

The returning David Hoe from injury and N Kline started the challenge with some excellent stroke play and gave the rest of the team an excellent platform with a partnership of 49.

When the partnership was broken S Watson (46) came to the crease with a purpose and played shots all around the ground and was joined by skipper Richard Knapp (33) in a run a ball partnership of 64.

It was then left to the returning Ross Geary (27) who tried to get Carlton to the magical figure of 200, but just fell short and the innings finished on 195 for 7 with good bowling figures of 2 for 63 by N Davidson, 2 for 44 by N Ellison and 2 for 39 by D Atkinson.

Rowntrees started the response well with Chris Todd making 64 and captain D Williams an impressive 29.

But then 14-year-old Will Brown on his debut was given the ball, he bowled with great control and accuracy and went on to take 5 for 42.

Rowntrees finished their innings on 161 for 6.

Will was presented with the match ball by the umpire Graham Cowling after the match, who was quoted as saying he is one of the best prospects seen at Fishpond field for some time.