THE opening day of the Vale Football League saw Cogan Coronation Seconds make the short journey to Barry Sports Centre to play AFC Rhoose.

The same fixture last season saw the teams share the points with a 2-2 draw so another tight affair was expected.

Cogan started the game very brightly and didn't have to wait too long for the opening goal; early pressure down both flanks took its toll when a deflected cross from Cea-jay Morgan found it's way passed the Rhoose 'keeper to open the scoring.

Cogan's second goal quickly followed when a long throw from Cea-jay was headed home from Danny Humphries's usual six yard range.

Within 10 minutes Cogan were three to the good when Sam 'wannabe captain' Wooster who had terrorised the Rhoose defence with some excellent runs was fouled in the box, Danny calmly slotted home the penalty for his second and Cogan's third.

Goal of the game then followed when Jonny 'I told you I'm an attacking midfielder' Matthews hit a half volley from 35 yards straight into the top corner; 4-0 Cogan.

Rhoose's day did not get any better when they lost one of their centre backs, and without any substitutes were down to 10 men and then the floodgates opened; goals came in quick succession from Sean Meredith, Sam Wooster, Jonny Mathews and two from Danny saw the score 9-0 at half-time.

As the game seemed to be won at half-time Kevin Clark and Lewis Humphries who had been excellent bossing the midfield were given a rest, and Rhys Shuster and Jonny Sadler introduced, showing the depth of Cogan's squad this season; the change soon made an impact with Rhys getting Cogan's 10th.

The defence for Cogan of Nathan 'Sheephead' Self, Callum Pearce, Sean Meredith and Bradley Munn were solid giving Ed Smith in goals very little to do other than coming out to miss a penalty.

Cogan then made their third change and man of the match Danny Humphries replaced upfront by Sheephead, and Wes Drew slotting into defence; Sheephead soon got on the goal sheet then was promptly moved into goal giving Ed a run out upfront. Ed duly made up for his earlier miss by getting Cogan's last goal to make the final score 12-0.

Cogan would like to thank Leisuretime UK and JL Electrical & Building Maintenance for their sponsorship this season allowing the purchase of a new kit and waterproof jackets.