AVELEY and Grays Athletic made a winning start to the new Isthmian North season, but Tilbury were condemned to a heavy home defeat.

James Webster’s Aveley raced to the top of the standings thanks to a convincing 6-0 victory over Dereham Town.

Harry Gibbs grabbed the Millers’ first goal of the campaign as he was the quickest to Tom Richardson’s blocked effort after 16 minutes.

And Aveley were to double their lead before the break, with George Doyle on target.

Four goals in 11 second half minutes allowed the hosts to wrap up a comfortable win in front of 228 fans at Parkside.

Freddie Gard, Alex Akrofi, Andy Freeman and a Richardson penalty completed the scoring.

Calvin Ekpiteta and Richardson also hit the woodwork in stoppage time.

Grays were 2-0 winners at Witham Town in an Essex derby.

Jamie Stuart’s side were in front after just two minutes as debutant Shomari Barnwell found the back of the net.

Mitch Hahn doubled the visitors’ advantage on 17 minutes and although no more goals were to follow, Grays will have been pleased with a winning opening day.

Elsewhere, Tilbury lost 4-0 to AFC Sudbury at Chadfields.

Billy Holland broke the deadlock five minutes before the break, while Phil Kelly doubled the away side’s lead soon after the interval.

Callum Harrison got his name on the scoresheet on the hour mark and Darryl Coakley was on target 10 minutes from time.