CHAMPIONS Haxby United made a winning start to their premier division title defence in the York Minster Engineering Football League.

Chris Dyson picked up where he left off last season when he opened the scoring in the 2-1 win over Hamilton Panthers, having netted in the closing three games of last season.

The hosts levelled courtesy of an own goal before John James wrapped up the win for Haxby.

New boys York RI opened their campaign with an impressive 4-2 home win over Old Malton St Mary’s, last season’s runners-up.

RI fell behind to an early Sam Lander goal, but Nick Hutchinson levelled for the hosts and then gave RI the lead.

Mark Woodward marked his home debut with a brilliant strike as the hosts lead 3-1 at the break.

The Ryedale side pulled a goal back through sub James Stone and RI were reduced to ten men when Woodward saw red, but Darren Sellars added a fourth with the last kick of the game.

Easingwold entered the top flight with a 2-1 home win over Wilberfoss.

Johnny Hunter and Dave Adams netted for Easingwold and John Heads hit a late goal for Wilberfoss, who missed a late penalty.

Dunnington lost 1-0 at Riccall, Chris Harker scoring the only goal.

Dringhouses beat Tadcaster 4-1.

Dave Haslam put ’Houses in front on ten minutes and, although Tom Deighton levelled, Anthony Bevans and a Mike McKenzie brace settled the match.