DEBUTANT Seb Dawes struck a leveller for Laverstock and Ford's new-look side which got their 2015/16 Division One campaign off to a steady start in a 1-1 draw with New Milton.

The management duo of Robbie Lakeman and Liam McConnell gave starts to five debutants who had impressed during pre-season and, with some key personnel still not available due to fitness and availability, it was left to them to stake their claim on the opening day.

Midway through the first half New Milton's James Shering found himself in space and his left wing cross caught out Alexis Ageur and looped into the roof of the net.

Laverstock's response was impressive as it was immediate. Within five minutes they were level. Archie Lovegrove played a smart through ball to the on-rushing Dawes who charged into the box before coolly finishing across the keeper to make it one apiece.

The second half saw Lavvy begin well, dominating the midfield battle and utilising the pace by the fearless Russ Jones. Elder brother Adam made his entrance at half time and almost made an instant impact with a volley that was pulled wide of the mark. Dawes almost grabbed his second, Lovegrove's teasing cross was just too high for the midfielder's leap and his glancing header narrowly missed the target.

Both teams continued to go for the winner and, despite the hosts having a penalty appeal turned down late on, they had to settle for a point.

"The one thing that stood out was the commitment of the players, the conditions were hot and we were up against quality opposition but the players were fearless and gave everything," McConnell reflected.

"In the end, with the chances we had, we deserved an opening day win."

"We still have some key members of our squad absent and not everyone is up to full speed yet and we are still monitoring one or two players to potentially bring into the group."