TWO goals in the first 10 minutes, both touched by an element of luck, saw newly-promoted Sudbrook CC draw at newly-relegated Blackrock Rovers.

After sweeping all before them in their title-winning season in the East Gwent Senior League, Sudbrook were eager to take their place in the Gwent County League.

But maybe, after having five men booked and one sent off, the players may need to be a little less vocal in their complaints to the referees in this league.

After a 10-minute spell in which both teams made and wasted a couple of half-chances, Rovers new-boy Richard Regulski celebrated his first goal for the club, tapping the ball into an empty net.

But Rovers’ joy was short-lived as, two minutes later, Richard Lloyd swung a cross-shot into their penalty area and home keeper Jason Szmaglik allowed the ball to squirm over his hands into the net.

From then on, both teams enjoyed periods of dominance and had good chances either saved by the respective keepers or struck against the woodwork, although a spate of bad tackles and disputes with the referee disrupted the flow.

“We allowed Sudbrook to play in their style in the first half, they defended deep trying to create space behind our defence, but we stood firm and coped very well.” said Blackrock manager Paul Lovell.

“In the second half we took the game to Sudbrook, our front men running at their defence and carving out five or six really good chances that we failed to convert, while restricting them to two or three chances.”

Sudbrook have also strengthened with goalkeeper Craig Brimble returning after a two-year absence following a cruciate ligament injury.

There were a few minutes of concern when he went down clutching his knee in the second half following a goalmouth scramble but he was able to continue.

His inclusion released last season’s keeper, Steve Hepple, to play in defence and his obvious height and strength were evident, particularly at corners at both ends of the pitch.

Up front, Sudbrook have another new player, Tom Stuart, who impressed with speedy runs, good control and showed strength in the air.

Sudbrook’s next game is against Villa Dino Christchurch on Saturday 22nd August.