NEWLY-promoted Kempsey got their Worcestershire County League Division Two campaign off to a slow start with a losing draw against Droitwich Spa.
Kempsey opted to field after winning the toss and bowled Droitwich out for 225 in the 50th over.
Matthew Gurr led the way for Spa with an unbeaten 53 while Jez Hanson chipped in with an almost run-a-ball 45 off 50.
Adam Baker (4-71) got the pick of the wickets for Kempsey who scored 114-9 in the rain-reduced second innings.
Only Lance Ohren (31) and Steve Winstanley (17) reached double figures for the hosts while spinner Martyn Davies (4-40) did the damage with the ball.