Defending men’s individual champion Steven Sheard (Kennington) made a successful start to this year’s competition, beating teammate Mark Trafford in the preliminary round – a repeat of last year’s final.

Also through is Chris Bateman (Marlborough), who overcame Phil McFarland (Berinsfield).

The new Johnsons Buildbase Bar Billiards Winter League season gets under way tonight, with 14 teams bidding for glory.

Tonight’s League Cup Matches

Kennington v Vikings A, Gladiators A v Masons B, Democrats v Vikings B, Berinsfield v Marlborough, Masons A v Gladiators B, Didcot CC v Headington CC, Comrades v Dolphin.