KERRY FREDRICKS scored a late item for Santos Real Maracas to edge a plucky Sparta FC unit 1-0 in a Group C affair of the Eddie Hart Football League (EHFL) in front of the pavilion at Eddie Hart Savannah in Tacarigua on Monday afternoon.
And last season's title-holders Paradise FC and runners-up MAASH Internationals got their campaigns off and running courtesy of big wins against Petit Bourg Youths and Maloney Real Footballers, respectively.
It was Sparta's second straight defeat on debut in the EHFL. They lost their maiden game to Trincity Nationals by a 5-2 margin last week Tuesday, with Robert Alexis scoring a brace. The other goals for Trincity Nationals came off the boots of Anslem Jackson, Cordell Cato and Kylan Gay. Michael Brown had both items for the newcomers.
In another encounter last week Tuesday, newcomers Overcome Bull whipped two-time champions House of Dread 4-2 to get their season off on a winning note in Group B.
Former Bon Air FC marksman Gorean Highley netted twice for his new club, while Shane Hospedales and Jamal Jack added the other goals.
Sheldon Hoppins was the contributor for House of Dread, who won the EHFL title in 2004 and 2005.
After a goalless first-half last Thursday against Maloney Real Footballers, 2009 champs MAASH International hammered five unanswered goals past their Group B opponents on the Main Road Ground.
Dwayne Beard netted the first hat-trick of the new season, while there was a goal each from Jason Joseph and last season's leading goal-scorer, skipper Steffon Stoute.
On the same day, league and knockout champions Paradise FC peppered last year's most disciplined team Petit Bourg Youths 4-1, with a goal each from four different players.
Doing the job for the double title-holders were Lorne Joseph, Kerry Noray, Clancy Burns and skipper Adrian Narine. Richard Goyrie knocked in the lone item for the boys from Petit Bourg.
Also last week, CAPS' 98 FC pipped five-time champions Parliament FC 1-0 after playing most of the first period with eight outfield players and a keeper.
CAPS' got their winner midway into the second session.
And on Sunday, Tunapuna Slappers and El Do Milan battled to a goalless draw in Group A in front of the Pavilion.