JOLLY Blues, who had a bye on the opening week of the Wellington Ladies Skittles League, began the defence of their title with a home win over Water Babies.

Katie Jordan was the night’s top scorer, knocking 63 as last winter’s winners won by 19 pins. The Blues’ score of 386 was also the highest of the five matches which were played. Kirsty Burrow also played well to score 56 for Water Babies.

Tina Coles continued her fine start to the season, scoring 61 as Land Girls won by 38 pins on their own alley against Pin & Tonics.

Closest match of the night involved Muppets and former champions All Blacks with only seven pins separating the teams. Muppets eventually came on top with Sue Wharton hitting a crucial 48.

Results: Land Girls 374 (Tina Coles 61), Pin & Tonics 336 (Sharon Green 48); Muppets 309 (Sue Wharton 48), All Blacks 302 (Hannah Binney, Jo Luckhurst 42); Wobbly Pins 304 (Lizzie Brewer 44), L.O.A. Spare 285 (Julie Watkin 42); Jolly Blues 386 (Katie Jordan 63), Water Babies 367 (Kirsty Burrow 56); Split Pins 343 (Bev Marke 52), Wanderers 283 (S Jarman 45).

Highest home score: Katie Jordan 63; highest away score: Kirsty Burrow 56.