SHARPHAM United opened their Stitch 2 Print Exeter & District Sunday League campaign in emphatic style, running out 8-0 winners away at Shiphay Wanderers.

It was a special day for manager Jack Scuse, who pulled on the gloves and kept a clean sheet in goal, all while the club he founded celebrates its 10th year.

Wilson set the tone with a stunning strike to open the scoring, set up by Obe. Zach doubled the lead with a deft lob from Chris's pass, before Solly struck twice in quick succession, both times teed up by Wilson. Wilson then added his second of the day from a Tom assist to make it five.

Sharpham kept their foot on the gas after the break. Rhian grabbed a brace, first from a Zach cross and then from Mike's delivery, before Mike got on the scoresheet himself, finishing off a move created by Solly to complete the rout.

The spread of goals and assists told the story of a genuine team performance, and that is exactly how the club likes it. Sharpham have built a reputation for playing the game the right way: no elbows, no bad tackles, no bad chat.

Known amongst the squad as "the Sharpham Way," it has not always brought results, with the side narrowly losing several close games in the past rather than compromise how they play. On Sunday, the approach was rewarded in style.

One player summed up the mood in the squad afterwards, saying that in this team an assist carries as much glory as a goal, and that the ethos set by Jack and the club's founders is what makes players dig in for a clean sheet when their legs are tired.

The team struck a good balance throughout, mixing experience with youth and pace with composure, while a group of young supporters on the touchline, decked out in Sharpham shirts and waving the club flag, added to the occasion.

A proud day for the Yellowhammers, and a perfect start to the season.