Whaley Bridge Under 18s kicked off the new season in style with a comfortable victory at home to Juno United Jaguars. The early exchanges were even, but Whaley slowly started to gain control. Hamaad Chaudhry swung in a corner to the near post, Jack Howell then drove it across for new boy Aaron Chapman to apply a neat back heeled finish. Minutes later it was two, as Howell broke free and slotted in at the far post. Whaley made it three at the break, and once again it was Howell who showed that he has been working on his finishing. The second half began with more home domination, and as the ball bounced around the box it was inevitably Howell who drove it home for his hattrick. The visiting defence could not cope with Howell's pace and power, and he quickly scored his fourth and fifth goals before being given a well deserved breather. The full squad was rotated, with Danny Burt and Ben Pickard making useful contributions, and Ethan Williams gaining a valuable 20 minutes action following his return from surgery. Ash Blackham dominated in goal, whilst Bruce Glover, Will McIlveen, Alfie Hodges and Ole Madden gave him plenty of protection at the back. Rhys Bowen showed great versatility and would have been man of the match if Howell hadn't scored five, and his partnership with Nathan Wild was a solid foundation in midfield. Aaron Chapman showed great pace and strength on his debut, whilst Kieran Connell adopted his all action style from the off. Howell moved about the front line with ease, whilst Chaudhry led the line with menace and purpose. Another goalmouth scramble saw Wild fire home number 7, and although Juno snatched a late headed consolation the 7-1 victory puts a marker down for the season.