DANNY Nixon and Andy Hamman went one better than their recent runners-up performance at the open pairs held at Castle Sports by taking the honours at Wharton Cons on Saturday, writes David O’Brien.

Coming through a strong field, they defeated John Brown and Alan Manuel of Warrington 21-16 in the final and took home the £300 first prize.

Brown and Manuel stopped the final from being an all Mid Cheshire affair when they defeated Tom Vickers and Adi Faulkner in the semi-final 21-10.

The second round of the Brunner Cup takes place this Saturday with defending champions Wharton Cons taking part in a local match up against Davenham Rec.

Castle Sports and Comberbach enter the competition facing Poynton Sports and Sale XL respectively, while Wharton Rec meet Frodsham Red Lion.

Games start at 2pm and will continue to be played on a six-at-home six-away basis.

After three games in the Mid Cheshire Premier League, Wharton Cons have opened a 62-chalk lead over their rivals Castle Sports.

In the last round of fixtures, Wharton Cons recorded a perfect score of 252.

Owley Wood B head the first division but do so having played more games than the other teams in the league.

Crewe PO, Wharton Cons B and Owley Wood A all have higher average scores and this section could see the leadership change hands multiple times as the season progresses.

Tarporley A are the early leaders in Section Two, while Norley A head the table in a tight Section Three.

Castle Sports C are making the early running in Section Four, opening up a 65-chalk lead over their opponents.

Tarporley B are following the lead of their A Team and stand at the head of Section Five.