A brilliant century from Shahbaz Butt guided Upminster to a First Round League Cup victory over Woodford Green on Saturday. New skipper Alan Ison also smashed 60 which included 5 sixes as Upminster posted a formidable 276/7. Shahbaz opening partner Shafiq Rahman also made 42 as the openers put on over 100 for the first wicket. Woodford Green were bowled out for a Richie Benaud dream score of 222 with Matthew Tigg being the pick of the bowlers taking 3-35 who was ably supported by the experienced John Curtis (2-30). Upminster will play Ilford next Saturday in Round Two at Valentines Park.

The 2nd XI played a pre-season friendly against Woodford Green at Upminster Park. Nicky Ison won the toss and elected to bat and he was able to watch 3 of his batsman notch up some good early season scores. James Evans and Adam Quested both made 73 and Mark Schofield scored 50 to boost his confidence when he returns from his rum-induced jaunt to Barbados this week. Upminster finished on 262/5 from their 45 overs. In reply, Woodford Green struggled against the Upminster spinners as Ison (4-6) and Peck (2-4) tore through Woodford Greens middle/lower order. (Scorecard)