SWINDON'S newly-formed Senior Flames outfit made their league debut on Sunday, strolling to a 15-2 win over Banbury Bulldogs.
Two early strikes from Dean Morgan added to goals from Mark Lane, Craig Davies and two from Luke Swaby, before Morgan sealed his hat-trick to give Flames a 7-0 half-time lead.
A Bulldogs own goal early in the second period set the tone as Swindon continued their dominance.
Jim Grey (3), Davies, Dave Morton, Mark Lane and Simon Smith saw Flames romp to a 13-goal win, as Babury had to settle for two late consolation efforts.
Flames manager Nigel Davies said: "This is a great start for our senior team and a landmark for the whole club, as we are now fielding teams in all age groups.'' The Junior Flames opened their Southern Area campaign with a 4-2 defeat to Oxford Hurricanes at Farnborough Leisure Centre, Craig Davies and Tom Ireland on target for the losers.
Flames coach James Cosgrove said: "The first game of the season is always tough, but to play against your local rivals makes it doubly difficult.
"Despite the result I am very happy with the determination shown by the team, and although there are plenty of things to work on we can only improve as the season progresses."
Flames youth team (under 15s) made the perfect start to the new season, thumping Ash Avalanche Thunder 16-0.
Hat-tricks from Jamie Morgan and Jack Townsend, plus goals from Terry Silvester and Kyle Coupe saw Flames take an 8-0 lead after the first period.
Townsend added a further two to his tally after the break, while Coupe completed his treble.
Oliver Thompson notched a brace and further goals from Connor MacKenzie, Alex Baker and John Spence completed the rout.
"A win as emphatic as this is a great way to start our season and should give us a great platform for our 2008 campaign," said Flames Youth boss Derek Thompson.
Flames' Peewee team found the going tough against league newcomers Farnborough Arrows, losing 16-1.
Injury and unavailability meant Flames were only able to field one line, and despite a noble effort which saw captain Sam Nobbs net in the second period, his strike proved little more than a consolation.
Swindon Skater Hockey Club trains on Saturdays (Friday evenings for the juniors) at the Croft Recreation Centre where all new players, regardless of experience or ability, are always welcome.
For further information contact The Croft on 01793 526622 or visit www.swindonflames.com.
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