The newly organised Ryman league set-up saw Aveley get their season off to a winning start with a 1-0 success at Hemel Hempstead.

The Essex side, plying their trade in Division Three last term, rode their luck for long spells, but were grateful to Tommy Lee's breakaway goal just after half-time.

The hosts went close on a number of occasions, most notably when Paul Lamb's hurried shot in the first half came back off the woodwork. Aveley have the chance to double their points tally on Tuesday night when Wembley are the visitors.

Less joy for our other Essex sides on the opening day of the season, with Great Wakering Rovers and Harlow Town battling out a 1-1 draw. The visitors, playing some neat football in an entertaining first half, took the lead on 47 minutes when Glenn Southgate's delicate cross was flicked in by the head of Tony McNally.

Rovers were level almost immediately though, with Dan Prenkel on hand to convert from six yards.

Elsewhere, East Thurrock United were on the end of an opening day hammering, falling 4-1 at Wivenhoe Town. Craig Everington's goal in the first half was the only reward United, who had Sean Conlon dismissed for a professional foul. Wivenhoe's goals came from Julian Hazell, Danny Roberts, Matt Carmichael and Ricky Schafter.

Finally to Tilbury, who suffered a 3-0 reverse at Thame United. Scott Larkin was dismissed for two bookable defences with the hosts already one up, and they went on to assert their numerical advantage with late goals from Mark Hardingham and Mark West, who hit his second of the game.

Published Sunday August 18, 2002