While it might not be the 2016-17 title the side craved earlier in the year, the new-look outfit would have taken some great satisfaction from the 25-run victory at Howe Park.

In the season decider, back in March, Creeks successfully defended its crown with a seven-wicket triumph.

But, Valley snared the early spoils at the weekend.

The team was sent into bat and compiled a very competitive 200.

Simon White stood tall with a handy 44, and received excellent support from opener Nathan Bagnall (29), Jacob Carey (27 not out) and Daniel Storey (27).

Haydon Edwards was the pick of the bowlers, snaring 3-48, while Myles Cook and Lachlan Charnock collected 2-7 and 2-31 respectively.

Creeks began its chase strongly, courtesy of Cook (47) and Chris Unicomb (10).

Middle-order contributions from Jake Hill (33) and Steve Unicomb (28) lifted the side to 4-113.

However, Creeks lost its last six scalps for 62, with their campaign ending on 175.

Storey backed up his batting feats with 4-35.

Bagnall (2-14) and Tom Cox (2-30) also chipped in with vital wickets.

In the other first grade fixture, Muswellbrook stunned a combined PCH/Glendon at Cook Park 3.

Muswellbrook amassed 166 and restricted its opponents to 136, thanks to Mick Deakin’s 6-9.