BERKS County’s Premier Division campaign began in disappointing style as they were beaten 2-0 at home by newly-promoted Westwood United on Saturday, writes Richard Ashton.

Champions Reading YMCA – who went unbeaten last season – carried on where they left off with a convincing 3-0 victory against Wokingham & Emmbrook Reserves, while Marlow United secured a fine 3-1 home win against Wright & Unity Sports.

They raced into a 3-0 lead thanks to a 21st-minute Ollie Flint strike and further efforts from Andrew Nichol and debutant Surdariu Catalin, while Ryan Kingsbeer netted the reply on the stroke of half time.

Michael Hancock scored for Mortimer, but they suffered a disappointing 4-1 home defeat to Highmoor Ibis United.

Goals from Craig Hill and Danny Collins fired Newbury to a 2-1 success against Taplow United, Jack Shea on target for the visitors.

Cookham Dean eased to a comprehensive 3-0 home victory against Woodley United Royals.

Lee Hawkins put the hosts in front on 40 minutes, and a second-half brace from Daniel Adams secured all three points.

Woodcote Stoke Row snatched a draw after coming from behind at Wraysbury Village.

The home side went 2-0 up as WSR – featuring seven debutants – struggled to find their feet, but Frank Dillon and Adam Cashin-Murray ensured Ross Weatherstone’s men did not slip to an opening-day defeat.