SAINTS’ women picked up where they left off from last season with a thumping 5-1 National League Division One South West victory over Poole Town.

Doubles for Ella Pusey and Georgie Freeland, as well as a goal from Shannon Sievwright ensured Marieanne Spacey-Cale’s side recorded a resounding win over Dolphins in their season opener.

The club’s women’s side were top of their respective division back in March, enjoying an unbeaten campaign until the coronavirus pandemic meant the season was null and void.

But having got off to a winning start in their league curtain-raiser, manager Spacey-Cale is pleased to be back.

Speaking ahead of the opening fixture, she told the club website: “I think first and foremost, we have to send our best regards to those affected by the situation in this county and the world.

“Being on a football pitch has been really good for the girls and really good for us as staff to be back in that group.

“Everyone will want to win the league, just as last year, so our focus is to be better than last year."

Saints host Buckland Athletic in their first home league clash at AFC Totton on Sunday (2pm).