KERSHAW PREMIER LEAGUE Fordham opened their campaign with a 3-1 midweek victory over newly-promoted Wickhambrook. Chances were few and far between in a high-tempo first half, but as the interval approached, the home side broke the deadlock with a well-ta

KERSHAW PREMIER LEAGUE

Fordham opened their campaign with a 3-1 midweek victory over newly-promoted Wickhambrook.

Chances were few and far between in a high-tempo first half, but as the interval approached, the home side broke the deadlock with a well-taken goal.

Sam James rode two challenges at the end of a penetrating run from midfield before slipping the ball to Jose Monteiro.

Fordham's new signing then supplied a perfect cross which Jamie Palmer dispatched with a header at the far post.

The hosts doubled their advantage with a penalty kick 10 minutes into the second half.

Monteiro's run into the area was ended by a scything challenge, and Dan Langley dispatched the resulting spot-kick.

Wickhambrook replied 15 minutes from time with an acute-angled shot after goalkeeper Jimmy Watson had made a fine save, but Fordham were at their counter-attacking best in the closing stages.

In the closing minutes, they added a decisive third goal, with Daren Pryke controlling the ball well before finding Ben Howe in the danger area.

Howe then evaded two challenges before slotting home to make the final score 3-1.

Fordham's back line were solid throughout the match, with young Harry O'Connor particularly outstanding.

In the same division Littleport Town went down by the odd goal in five at home to Waterbeach.

James Francis scored twice for the hosts, but they had Alan White sent off for two bookable offences and trailed in 3-2 at the final whistle.

SENIOR DIVISION A

Martin Gray was man-of-the-match for Ely City Reserves as they opened with a 2-0 win at the expense of Grampian.

Richie Murfitt, a close season signing from Littleport Town, rounded the goalkeeper to score on his debut, and Dave Cornwell made it 2-0 with a low shot that flew in at the near post after 55 minutes.

It was a good start for last season's Senior B champions, but they should have won far more convincingly.

Soham Town Rangers Reserves also dominated in their clash with Hundon, but eventually had to settle for a 2-2 draw.

Gareth Randall opened the scoring for Rangers, but the visitors struck either side of the break to establish a 2-1 lead.

Steve Bell redressed the balance with 20 minutes remaining, and Soham were denied by a combination of the woodwork and fine goalkeeping as they searched in vain for the winner.

SENIOR DIVISION B

With Ely Crusaders having apparently folded before the start of the season, Soham United have been the major beneficiaries with several new signings. Nevertheless they lost their opening game 2-0 at Haddenham Rovers.

Haddenham were without Rob Dewsbury, new signing Will Ludbrooke and car-crash victim Kenny Holmes, but they looked the stronger side throughout and took the lead through former Soham player Ally Gilbert.

He got right through the United defence, but looked to have lost possession before somehow scooping the ball into the far corner of the net.

Rovers had several chances to increase their lead - Tom Moden in particular wasting several opportunities - before Robbie Keen nodded home an Aaron Collins corner to clinch the points.