STRIKER Scott Joyce scored twice but was then sent off as Christchurch announced their return to Wessex Premier with a 2-0 win at Horndean.

The experienced frontman took just 31 minutes to open his account for the campaign before notching his second 20 minutes from time.

Joyce was shown a second yellow two minutes later, however, as both sides finished with 10 men after Horndean’s Jack Maloney had seen red in the opening period.

Harry McGrath struck twice as Bashley got their campaign off and running with a 2-0 win at home to Andover New Street.

Brockenhurst and Poppies played out a 1-1 draw at Meadens Skoda Arena. Micky Finch struck for Poppies before Matt Casey restored parity for the hosts on the hour.

Callum Brooks’s first competitive game in charge of Hamworthy United ended in a 3-0 defeat at Cowes Sports, while Lymington Town drew 0-0 at Hamble Club on Friday.

Matt Vining scored the only goal of the game as Verwood Town triumphed 1-0 at Wessex One rivals Whitchurch.

Lee Vint’s goal earned Ringwood Town a 1-1 draw at home to Amesbury.

Poppies and Portland United face off in Wessex Premier on Tuesday, while Hammers entertain Bashley at the Specsavers County Ground (both 7.45pm).