AMMANFORD got their 2008 campaign off to a blistering start at the Park on Saturday, when they scalded Neath by nine wickets in the opening match of the South Wales League sponsored by Dawnus Construction.
Skipper Craig Maloney broke last summer's jinx by winning the toss and putting the visitors in to bat. Neath's openers Thomas (63) and Maddock (34) provided a sound foundation with 79 for the first wicket which was taken by Matthew Fisher.
Glamorgan's Dean Cosker then took three quick wickets before Andrew Williams (37no) joined Tony Cottey (53) and this pair took the score past the 200 mark before Cottey was dismissed in the last over. Neath closed on a highly respectable 203 for 6.
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Ammanford's openers Steffan Jenkins and Rhydian Harris provided an equally solid start with a half-century opening stand before Jenkins was caught and bowled by former Ammanford spinner Gareth Grant for 14.
With the score on 56 for 1, Alun Evans made a welcome return to the middle of Ammanford Park, and that signalled the end of any Neath hopes. Evans (67no) played a rock solid supporting role to Harris, whose magnificent form farmed him 11 fours and 3 sixes in an unbeaten 113.
There were five overs to spare when Ammanford overtook Neath's total with nine wickets in hand, and this will give them great confidence for the coming season.
However, they would also do well to remember that an early season victory over Neath last season heralded the start of their long decline to the relegation zone.
With only one draw in the remainder of Saturday's first division fixtures, Ammanford have put themselves in the right sort of company, and have the personnel to ensure they stay there.
Saturday's match ball was sponsored by LA Warehouses.
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