BIRLINGHAM got their Worcestershire League Division Three campaign off to a perfect start with a 24-point, 80-run win at home to Hagley.

Asked to bat first, they struggled before the middle order took control with the returning Gavin Spares striking a hard-hitting 79.

Spares was ably supported by Alan Keylock (46 not out), Martin Downes (28) and Paul Lawton (26) in Birlingham's 224-6 in 50 overs.

The Hagley reply of 144 all out never really got to grips with the bowling of Paul Lawton (4-16) and Andy Willets (4-36).