Reigning champions Stoneham GC have been knocked out of the 2023 British Clubs Mixed Championships at the first hurdle.
The Hampshire top 100 club, who beat Stocksfield GC in the final last year, put up a brave defence before succumbing 3-2 to debutants Royal Winchester GC in the first round.
Royal Winchester, one of more than 50 newcomers this year, will now host fellow debutants Rowlands Castle GC in the second round.
There was better news for 2022 runners-up Stocksfield GC, who have returned in style with two teams this year.
Stocksfield A will now travel to City of Newcastle GC in round two after beating Bamburgh Castle GC 4-1 while Stocksfield B will visit Alnmouth GC after defeating Hexham GC by the same score.
Bedfordshire GC, who also reached finals day last year, started well with a 4-1 victory over Bedford & County GC while 2022 third-placed team Belton Woods GC enjoyed mixed fortunes after returning with two teams.
The Lincolnshire side’s A team lost 3-2 to Forest Pines GC but their B team progressed after a walkover against Glen Gorse GC B.