WIVENHOE TOWN and STANWAY ROVERS both kicked-off their seasons with draws on the road.

The Dragons fought back from behind to draw 1-1 at Gorleston – one of the high-fliers in last season’s premier division – thanks to a goal from Ben Parkin.

Stanway, on the other hand, were two-up at Newmarket, but had to be content with a share of the spoils from a 2-2 draw.

Kevin Coyle won and converted a penalty, before a second for Ray Turner.

However, the Jockeys showed their fighting spirit with a goal in either half and Rovers boss Angelo Harrop admitted being “gutted”.

FC CLACTON lost 2-1 at home to Thetford - Aaron Condon buried a late consolation from the penalty spot - while BRANTHAM ATHLETIC lost 5-1 at Mildenhall.

After falling behind on the quarter-hour mark, Sean Gunn swiftly responded with a leveller for Paul Abrahams’ side.

However, Mildenhall nosed back in front before half-time and then turned the screw with three more goals after the break.

HALSTEAD TOWN kicked-off their division one campaign with an emphatic 6-0 victory at home to Downham Town.

Lewis Cunliffe, James Regan, Ash Baptiste, Charlie Knight, Ellis Carter and Reis Farley-Hearn were on target for Mark Benterman’s side.

For full non-league coverage, including reaction and pictures, see Monday's Gazette.