Smiths 4, Pershore 1

PERSHORE used this traditional opening fixture to give new recruits valuable match practice and more experienced campaigners a chance to build on their summer fitness work.

Despite the setback Paul Hoxey made a promising debut in goal and Matt Hughes looks set to follow in his elder brother's footsteps.

The visitors started confidently with Gareth Rushton and Jamie Hughes causing problems and took the lead in the tenth minute when Dave Ingram latched on to a loose ball.

Smiths retaliated with a number of raids down the middle and after a few near missses pulled a goal back just before half time.

With Hughes injured and a number of substitutions being made, Pershore lost their rhythm after the interval and allowed Smiths to seize the initiative which they converted into a two-goal lead.

With Pershore now chasing the game, risks were taken at the back which gave room for Smiths to add a fourth goal late on.

The club are on the look out for new players. People of all skill levels are welcome to join the club. For more information call Alan Dufty on 01386 553187, Graeme Rushin (07949 080946) or Dave Ingram (01386 861230).