SOMERSET, Bermuda (CMC) – Skipper Andre McCarthy produced a fine all-round performance but could not prevent touring Jamaican side Melbourne Cricket Club tumbling to a 34-run defeat against the Bermuda national team in the first of three 50-overs matches at Somerset Cricket Club on Saturday.

McCarthy claimed four for 39 from nine overs as Bermuda rattled up 254 for nine after being sent in and then top-scored with 74 as Melbourne came up short in reply. The visitors were bowled out for 220 in the 44th over with number nine Shamal Anderson, who made 41, the only other Melbourne batsman to offer any significant support.

Bermuda’s top four batsmen laid the foundation for victory with openers Jason Anderson (76) and Treadwell Gibbons (31) making a fine start before Tre Manders hit 50 at number three and skipper Stephen Outerbridge 35 at number four.

Veteran all-rounders Janeiro Tucker (0) and Lionel Cann (15) failed to inflict any serious damage as Anderson picked up two for 38 and opening bowler Denva Passley two for 56.

In reply, Melbourne made a poor start with openers Jon-Ross Campbell (17) and Tarique White (12) and number three Sadiki Bolt (10) all falling cheaply before McCarthy and Anderson revived their hopes.

Jacobi Robinson, who claimed thee for 23 in 2.3 overs, was the pick of the Bermuda attack while Sammy Robinson (3-36) also grabbed three wickets.

Melbourne, who opened their tour with emphatic Twenty20 victories over Jamaican Association and hosts Somerset, will again face Bermuda – now gearing up to host the six-nation ICC World Cricket League Division 3 World Cup Qualifying Tournament starting later this month – on Sunday and Tuesday.