New NLCC 2nd team captain Steve West knew that winning the toss was vital, given the freezing wind and sticky wicket we were to play on.

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Fortunately for us the opposition skipper, Nick Fraser, called incorrectly and predictably The North took to the field together, hoping to restrict Guiseley to less than 150.

New signing, Abid Ali, and Mark "Billy" Singleton opened the bowling and both bowled tight early spells.

Amir Farooq then came into the attack, replacing Abid, but struggled up the hill, bowling several wides and no-balls letting the opposition into the game.

Abid then came back for his second spell, this time from the Old Park Road end with more success, eventually ending with 4 wickets on debut. Fadi Lak also struggled with the same afflictions as Amir but soon found a good line, also claiming 4 wickets.

Billy and Amir picked up 1 wicket apiece and Guiseley's innings closed on 118 all-out after 41 overs.

The North Leeds reply began swiftly, Tim Hales scoring 21 before falling to a smart gully catch, soon followed by his opening partner Paul Phillips for 8. T

The club's overseas pro for 2008, Greg Kennedy, was making his club debut in the seconds due to a knee injury picked up during his first practice. Batting at three, he began cautiously before hammering an unbeaten 55.

Another new winter signing, Steve Plummer batted at four but managed only 7 in his first knock.

Guy Hollis was in at five, returning to The North after a year working in the USA, and batted as if he'd never been away, ending on an effortless 26 not out giving victory to The North and a well earned 6 points.

There are still improvements to be made, a couple of dropped catches and some poor dismissals not helping our cause but the effort, on a day barely suitable for rugby, was clear to see.

The skipper will have an even tougher selection headache next weekend as more players are available for our visit to Harden.