USK CC Firsts XI began their league season with a comfortable 80-run win over Pentyrch. The second team meanwhile had their game called off without a ball being bowled. In a friendly on Sunday Usk the Thirds lost heavily at home to a strong Blackwood XI by 100 runs. At the Athletic Club Ground on Saturday, skipper Henry Lewis won the toss and elected to bat. This proved a wise decision as Usk made solid progress towards a total of 203-9 from their 50 overs. The backbone of the innings was a fifth wicket of partnership of 84 between Lorne Burns, who scored 62 containing three fours, and Mark Tamplin (29). Contributions from Iain Clayton (33) and Neil Perrett (21*) ensured Usk posted a challenging total. For Pentyrch C. Brown took four wickets. Pentyrch's reply was slow going, and they never managed to keep up with the rate. Tight bowling from the hosts ensured that Pentrych did not reach three figures until the 36th over. At this stage the visitors were 104-4, needing a further 100 from the final 16 overs. It was never really on, and Pentrych were unable to hold on for a losing draw as they were all out for 133 with just ten balls of the innings remaining. The wickets were shared around the Usk bowlers with Jason Cook, James Colthart and Ollie James each picking up a brace. With Sunday's friendly against Brynmawr being called off, a game was arranged against a powerful Blackwood line-up. Blackwood batted first and took control of the game right from the start as D Wilkinson (95) and N Reardon (30) put on 88 for the first wicket. Blackwood's top order ensured a tough target for Usk as they cruised to 231-5 from their 40 overs. For Usk Greg Peacock picked up a couple of wickets. Usk lost wickets regularly and were reeling at 35-6 in the 11th over. Battling contributions down the order from Vince Evans (27), Harry Morris (17), Greg Peacock (16) and Matt Cook (13) at least took Usk to respectability as they were all out for 131. This Saturday, Usk's first team will attempt to maintain their good start to the season as they visit St Fagans. The seconds will look to get their season under way as they entertain the same opponents. Both games start at 1pm. On Sunday, Usk thirds will begin their league season away to Newbridge. Play begins at 2pm.