The opening weekend of the new West District season certainly didn’t disappoint, with plenty of goals, a few surprises and some early statements of intent across the three divisions.
Division 1
The biggest headline came from Inverclyde Academy, where defending champions Western 3rd XI were held to a 3-3 draw by newcomers Greenock. Western didn’t drop a single point during their title-winning campaign last season, making Greenock’s result an impressive start to life back in West District hockey.
Fellow Regional League arrives Kelburne 2nd XI found the step into Division1 equally challenging, suffering a 4-2 defeat at home to Giffnock, who will delighted to begin the campaign with three points.
Meanwhile, Chris Lawson picked up where he left off last season, scoring twice as Rottenrow edged out Hillhead 4th XI 3-2 in one the weekend’s closest contests.
Division 2
There was plenty of interested surrounding the newly promoted sides and Clydesdale 5th XI showed little sign of nerves, beginning life in Division 2 with a solid 2-0 victory over Hillhead 6th XI. Having not lost a league match in the previous two seasons, they look determined to continue their momentum at a higher level.
Another intriguing fixture saw two of the division’s new arrivals meet as Rottenrow 3rd XI hosted Kelburne 3rd XI. It was Kelburne who made the stronger start, securing a 3-1 win and an early foothold in the promotion race.
Division 3
In Division 3, Ali Bleach struck twice as Clydesdale 6th XI opened their campaign with victory over Greenock 2nd XI.
Elsewhere, Hillhead 8th XI showed plenty of attacking intent, scoring five goals against Helensburgh 2nd XI in an impressive opening day performance.
