MARK Pettini's unbeaten century started Essex's One-Day Cup campaign off with an eight-wicket victory over Worcestershire.
The 30-year-old's 102 not out came in 112 balls, as he and Jesse Ryder helped the Eagles reach the 238 target in 42.2 overs.
Graham Napier excelled with the ball, taking 4-59 from his ten overs, including two wickets with the first two balls of the game.
Tim Phillips also chipped in with two wickets as the Eagles reduced their hosts to 145-7.
But a recovery from Joseph Leach (45*) and Shaaiq Choudhry (44*) took the Royals to 238 from their 50 overs.
In reply, Tom Westley (5) fell early, but Pettini and Ravi Bopara (59) took control of the innings.
When Bopara eventually was bowled by Jack Shantry, Ryder (68*) joined Pettini and the duo saw the Eagles home.
