WHITCHURCH United were handed a surprise 3-0 beating by Wessex Premier League new boys Amesbury Town on Wednesday night as their new campaign got off to a disappointing start.

The sluggish Jam Boys struggled to keep up with the pace of their enthusiastic visitors, who scored all three of their goals inside the opening 30 minutes.

The two sides hadn't met since the 2012/13 season, when United smashed nine goals past their opponents.

But it was clear from the off that there would be no repeat of that scoreline, when Ben Cook opened the scoring for the visitors after nine minutes.

Former Whitchurch man Luke Walker then struck twice, the second shortly before the half hour mark, to give Amesbury a comfortable three goal cushion.

United showed improvement in the second half and nearly pulled one back when they were awarded a penalty, but Cameron Hough missed from the spot.

The Jam Boys will be hoping for an improved performance when they play Bristol-based Cribbs FC in the FA Cup on Saturday.

The game will be played at Longmeadow and will kick-off at 3pm.