ST THEODORE'S showed that they are going to be a tough team to beat this season with a fine all-round performance.

Such was their dominance over Bury Grammar School, keeper Matt Evans was reduced to a spectator's role as the visitors were kept at bay by the Saints' defence.

The bumpy surface and long grass made passing difficult but the home side continued to try and play football with Gary Stopforth in particular very influential.

But despite all their possession, the Saints could not make the breakthrough with Tom Clare hitting the crossbar while Matthew Marshall struck a post early in the first half.

And Chris Duff made several dangerous runs down the left but the finishing touch just would not come. However the deadlock was finally broken when Clare had an effort well saved by the Bury keeper and big defender Liam Carney was on hand to hook the ball home.

St Theodore's continued their relentless pressure after the break and any Bury attack was repelled by the formidable form of Carsey, Scott McKenzie and David Ashton at the back.

But again it was only a matter of time before the Saints grabbed a second and it was worth waiting after Clare rounded off a flowing five-man move with a delightful chip over the advancing keeper.

And it was Clare who dealt the killer blow when he opted for power to grab his second and the Saints' third with a thunderous shot.

The home side can be happy with a good all-round performance.

The back three were solid while Joe Pollard and Danny Fleming adapted well to their new wing back roles. Ben Curwen showed intelligence when in possession of the ball, Stopforth gave a tireless display while Clare was at his predatory best.

However the game was marred when the Bury Grammar School team were orderded off the pitch by their coach seven minutes from time because he was apparently not happy with the way some of the St Theodore's players were playing.

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