Burghead indoor bowlers begin trophy defence by defeating Hopeman rivals in opening round of Ed Beattie Memorial Charity Cup

The holders made a winning start to the defence of Morayshire Indoor Bowling Association’s first cup competition.

The Ed Beattie Memorial Charity Cup got under way and reigning champs Burghead took on neighbours Hopeman B.

The underdogs looked to cause an upset with Ross Tripp winning his match 14-8, before Rondy McKenzie hit back for Burghead with a 19-11 success to give his team a two-shot edge going into the second session.

The holders took control in the second session with skips Ryan Gordon and David Ross both winning convincingly to ensure the holders progressed to round two.

Birnie hosted Fochabers in an all-first division clash, where David Parry and Jim Hinshelwood won close encounters to give the home club a six-shot advantage after the first session.

Any hopes of a revival from Fochabers were soon dashed with Jim Young and Bryce Milne both starting strongly and there was to be no let-up as the village club progressed.

Another all-first division clash saw Alves entertain Lhanbryde with one win apiece in the first session, Graeme Taylor for the home team and Andrew Furr for the visitors.

The home club took the initiative in the second session matches to secure overall victory.

First division Hopeman A proved too strong for second division Duffus in the first session, James Morrison and Philip McPherson giving the away club a commanding advantage.

Davy Clarihew and Gibby Phillips produced a spirited fightback for the village club winning both second session games 14-6 and 14-7, but it was not quite enough as the coastal club advanced.

Forres Victoria took an 18-shot advantage into the second session against Bishopmill with Paul Coutts and Paul Rogan winning 12-6 and 17-5.

The second session was much closer, as Charlie Watt edged out Willie Robertson 11 -10 with the final game also going in favour of the hosts as second division league leaders Forres progressed to the next round.

There was more Forres joy as the Royal British Legion advanced to the next round against Fogwatt.

The final first round fixture between the two Lossie bowling clubs takes place next week.