East Gwent Senior LeagueDivision 1CALDICOT Town are the early leaders in Division 1, thanks to an 8-0 win over Caldicot Castle A, but Underwood SC A registered the second-best scoring display of the day winning 5-1 at Tintern Abbey.

Last season’s runners-up, Underwood, have lost a number of players during the summer but manager Craig Johnson was given a boost as prolific scorer Josh Downing proved he was back on form, netting four times.

“It was a fantastic team performance at a very difficult place to go for our first game,” said Johnson.

“My players did well and got the result we wanted.

“Josh didn’t have a very good season with injuries and general fitness holding him back but I’ve been tough on him pre-season and dropped him to the seconds.

“His hard work has paid off and he is back to his best.”

Rob Williams scored Underwood’s other goal.

Mathern Reserves A came from a goal down to win 3-2 at Severn Tunnel A with goals from Wayne Duffield, Ryan Guscott and Hywel Pugh to delight manager Lee Baker.

“We were slow off the mark in the first half and made it hard for ourselves by not controlling the game.” Baker said.

“But in the second half there was only one team in it.

“We outclassed them with the ball and out-battled them all over the park.

“To win 3-2 from a goal down is a good start against a team that will be up in the top three or four teams at the end of the season.

“For us, consistency will be the key of course but I’m sure we’ll be up there with them.”

Newly-promoted Severn Bridge won 3-2 at home to Chepstow Athletic and the Bridge’s top scorer last season, Chris Hooper, has already opened his account with Steve Jones and Rob Ayre adding the others.

Thornwell Red & White showed they will also be contenders for a rapid return to the Gwent County League with a 3-0 victory at Undy.