The first league match of the season ended in a draw for St Albans Croquet Club.

The Clarence Park-based side travelled to Wrest Park, defending champions of the Herts & Beds League, and both teams won three games each.

The morning doubles were shared, putting the onus on the afternoon singles.

Stephen Mills rapidly won his match and without his opponent getting a hoop, 26-0, but Chris Frost was beaten 26-3.

The other two games were closer.

Stuart Stafford did make some breaks towards the end but couldn't prevent himself slipping to a 26-14 defeat.

Mike Hann though ensured St Albans could go home with something, his 26-10 success building on an early lead.

St Albans travel to Watford for their next league match and, after a bye in round one, they will start their assault on the national Longman Cup, which they won in 2021, away to Ashby or Shrewsbury.

Croquet is an easy game to pick up and is played from a social to an international level.

The club run an introductory course this month and next with more details at www.stalbanscroquet.co.uk/