WITH NEAR-NEIGHBOURS AFC Melksham and Steeple Ashton Rangers both searching for their first S.K. Fruits Limited, Chippenham & District Sunday League Premier Division victory it was Melksham who were toasting the champagne as they at last turned chances into goals as they beat their guests 10-1.

Melksham, as so many times this season, found themselves struggling to get a team together with five players missing through injuries picked up playing Saturday football, but calling on squad players, Mike Rogers' side were able to field a half-decent side for their clash.

Tony McElhone helped himself to two well-taken efforts thanks to great wing work from firstly Josh Robinson and then Brett Partner who set up the young striker for his brace.

In between Ashley Palmer returning from six months due to a knee injury scored to open his account for the season.

Three up inside 18 minutes against a shell-shocked Ashton, who continued to battle, pulled a goal back with a well-taken effort from Chris Brady, the visitors twice tested Nick Dibden within minutes bringing out two great saves from the home keeper before the superb Partner created and scored Melksham’s fourth to give the hosts a 4-1 half time lead.

The home side knew a early goal would seal the game and Partner got his second and Melksham’s fifth three minutes into the second half and for the first time the visitors heads dropped.

Sean Fordham scored on 50 minutes and Palmer earned a well earned rest when Gareth Evans turned back the years and came on up front. Evans' first touch saw his score a long range thunderbolt and he then stole the show with a three further goals as Ashton had no response to the hosts.

Referee Sam Gooding picked praise from both sides in a game which was played in good spirit.

MATCH OFF: The Castle FC v FC Colerne, Westbury Rangers v Semington Rovers.

CHIPPENHAM SUNDAY LEAGUE ROUNDUP, STATS AND PICTURES IN THURSDAY'S GAZETTE & HERALD AND FRIDAY'S WILTSHIRE TIMES AND FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @gazsport and @WTSport