CARLTON Towers II suffered their first-ever defeat to Stillington II with a poor batting performance.

The hosts captain Richard Horner lived up to his reputation of being one of the outstanding bowlers in the division by taking four wickets in an opening spell of 12 overs, and conceding only nine runs in the process.

Kevin Simpson finished the rout by taking three wickets with five balls in his only over.

Stillington's bowlers were also assisted by a surprisingly efficient field, considering it was the opening match and a winter designed to stiffen the joints.

The Carlton Tower's attack was never going to change the course of the game, but there was great potential showed by Sam Morris and David Squires, who opened the bowling well.

Stillington reached the abysmal target after 10 overs, through veteran Dennis North and Mika Whitwell, who made top score of the day with an undefeated 16.

Carlton II continue their Division Five B campaign at home against Thorp Arch and Boston Spa II on Saturday.

l Carlton Towers III face Huntington at home on Sunday in the HPH York Vale League.