IT was the dawn of a new era as LITTLE OAKLEY played their first-ever match in the Thurlow Nunn League.

The depleted Acorns suffered a 3-1 defeat against Wisbech St Mary in the first division encounter but there were plenty of positives for Sean Tynan's side.

After a goal-less first half, the visitors scored two quick goals soon after the restart to put themselves in the driving seat.

Oakley refused to give up and scored the goal of the game when Sam Eldridge fired home after a great through ball from Steve Polley.

Harry Mann then went close to equalising, steering Rob Pratt's cross just wide, before Pratt was denied by the Wisbech keeper.

The visitors, who moments before had had an effort disallowed, then added their third from long-range.

Elsewhere in division one, HALSTEAD TOWN and March Town United shared the spoils from a 1-1 draw at the Milbank Stadium.

After falling behind early on, the Humbugs levelled when Jamie Baker's right-wing cross nestled inside the far corner of the net after 37 minutes.

Earlier, Adam Hampson had sent a penalty over the bar.

BRAINTREE TOWN RESERVES began their campaign with a 1-1 draw at home to Norwich CBS.

HOLLAND FC did not have a fixture on Saturday and neither did premier division side COGGESHALL TOWN.