YMCA Raiders started their defence of the Taunton league title with a win against Ark Tigers.

The teams were neck and neck going into the final games of the night before a strong push by the Raiders sealed the match for them.

Despite being on the losing side, John Crabtree was unbeatable on the night, not dropping a game in his singles and sending a strong message to the league that the Tigers are once again going to be competing for the league title.

Barrington Able Bodies started their first campaign in the league with a nail-biting loss against YMCA Old Stars.

The teams were evenly matched throughout the night with close five set matches.

But it was the maximum of Mark Morley that was the difference.

With just one point between both teams, it came down to the last game between Morley and Simon Oakes.

And despite a long third game, Morley was able to take the match in straight sets and claim his 100% record.

Mel Horner also picked up a maximum on the night, however he took the unconventional way, taking all three of his matches to five sets and edging past each of them.

Elsewhere in the Premier, the Rodney Richards Experience handed newly-promoted Saints Rebounds a harsh defeat.

Clare Sykes was the only person for the Rebounds to pick up a win on the night as the Experience dominated on the night, picking up 31 out of the maximum 33 points.

Steve Smith and Vince Court were unbeaten.

Results: Premier Division – YMCA Old Stars 24, Barrington Able Bodies 22; Rodney Richards Experience 31, Saints Rebounds 10; Ark Tigers 15, YMCA Raiders 23; Saints Edgers 30, Ilminster Eagles 13; First Division – Saints Spinners 30, Chimchimminey 12; YMCA Marauders 30, Academy Tigers 15; Monday Knights 13, Tiverton Topspins 28; Levellers 31, YMCA Rainbows 10.