Darlington RA faced newcomers Shotton Comrades on the opening day of the season and passed the test with a 4-1 victory against the former Albany Northern League club.

An early goal by Lee Johnston was just what they needed and when Stephen Sinclair added a second immediately following the interval, Shotton had a fight on their hands.

The visitors hit back through Graham Jackson only for Sinclair and Michael Carter to wrap up the points for RA with two late strikes.

Stokesley SC rattled seven goals past Whitehaven who managed only one in reply from Chris Nichols. Jonathan Newton (3), Richard Hore (2), Adam Bramley and Nathan Haslam all struck for the Teessiders.

Sport Catterick, playing their first game in the league, impressed at Washington Nissan UK. Jamie Bowman and Joe Hall put them two goals up and although Tommy Donkin found the net for Nissan, the visitors finished strongly with a third goal from Sam Vernalls.

Two penalties by James Smith and a Shaun Petch strike were sufficient for Ryhope CW at Wolviston who managed just one goal from Carl Wilson.

Ferryhill Athletic suffered a 8-1 defeat at home to Cleadon SC. Mark Johnson hit a hat-trick and other goals came from Peter Brand, Dean Blackstone, Neil Hepple, Brian Tully and Danny Nixon. Mark Brischuk scored for Ferryhill.

Despite twice leading New Marske were beaten 3-2 by Birtley Town. Coxhoe Athletic, came back from a two-goals deficit to draw 2-2 against Gateshead Reserves at the International Stadium.

Craig Rolfe hit a brace asBoldon CA beat Cleator Moor Celtic 3-1. David Craig was Annfield Plain's matchwinner against Windscale. Jarrow impressed defeating Harton and Westoe 4-1.