South African newcomer Le-Neal Jackson had a debut to remember as Pelicans started the season in scintillating style on Saturday.
The atmosphere at Alive Lynnsport was electric on Saturday afternoon as the Pelicans stepped out for their season opener against Old Loughtonians.
By pushback, a healthy crowd had gathered to see how Sean Kerry, Sam Phillips, Head Coach Jack Major and Jackson would lead the side into the new campaign.
Their opponents, newly promoted Old Loughtonians 2nds, were expected to test Pelicans’ mettle.
But the home side quickly showed its intent.
From the first whistle, returning stalwarts Ollie Booth and Ian Simons, alongside debutants Benjamin Tarratt and Jack Bass, settled the side into a fast rhythm.
It didn’t take long before Sam Phillips opened the scoring after a sharp midfield turnover.
Moments later, Pelicans earned their first penalty corner, and Jackson announced himself to the faithful in style, rifling a low strike into the backboard to make it 2-0.
Old Loughtonians responded with determination, carving out chances and pulling one back, but Phillips and Jackson combined again from another set piece to restore the two-goal cushion.
Chris Page’s industrious work down the right created more havoc before half-time, sparking a goalmouth scramble that ended with Pelicans firmly in control at 4-1.
The second half continued in the same vein. Jackson unleashed a thunderous drag flick into the roof of the net to send the crowd roaring at 5-1.
Old Loughtonians refused to fold, forcing a smart penalty-corner save from keeper Dan Upton before finally capitalising on a turnover to reduce the deficit to 5-2.
The hosts, however, had the perfect reply.
Toby Phillips intercepted high up the pitch and brother Sam seized on the loose ball, driving through the last line of defence for a clinical finish for 6-2.
The final word belonged, fittingly, to Jackson.
After Tarratt and Jason Esser engineered another penalty corner, Phillips’ effort was stopped but Jackson reacted quickest to bury the rebound, sealing his fourth goal of the day and Pelicans’ 7-2 triumph.
It was a statement win built on a blend of returning talent and new blood.
The Player of the Match was awarded to Jack Bass, whose tireless running and constant communication proved pivotal.