EXPRESS 88 entertained Defford & Besford in the Infirmary Cup first round to begin their defence of the trophy won in the previous season.

EXPRESS 88 3, DEFFORD & BESFORD 1

Express started well and saw several well-worked opportunities go astray until Jason Jones' fine cross from the right found Lee Hooper in the box to superbly head home from ten yards after 20 minutes.

Within minutes Defford & Besford had equalised when a disputed free kick was headed goalwards by an unmarked striker which beat keeper Dave White down to his right.

In the second half Express continued to press in hope of a goal but it wasn't until player-manager Mark Taylor and Sean Clarke were introduced that chances were converted. Good passing from Taylor and Mark Brookes saw the latter play a fine ball to Hooper who beat a defender and drove the ball across the keeper into the far corner for 2-1.

The game was wrapped up when good play down the left from Clarke and Hooper saw a fine ball played into Mark Brookes' path to fire the Express into round two.

Thanks go to Gerry and Anne for after-match refreshments, PH Auto for match ball sponsor and kit sponsors M G Joinery.

On Sunday, Express 88 are away to Coppertops, players meet 9.30am prompt at the Express Inn.