OXTON Hockey Club men's 1st XI started their North Hockey League Premier Division campaign with a 4-3 success against Manchester rivals Brooklands.

Oxton's Paul Lythgoe and Trevor Merrick pressured Brooklands from the start, their pace creating numerous opportunities. Oxton led 3-0 with goals by Fraser Eaton, Merrick and Ollie Logan. But within a 10-minute spell each side of half-time, Brooklands were level, scoring three quick goals.

Oxton, though, stole the points with a goal from two yards.

On Sunday, in the National H.A Cup, Oxton reached the third round with an easy 4-1 win at home to Kingston-upon-Hull. Goals came via Gordon Moore, 2, Merrick and Chris Martin.