SWINDON kicked off their Verde Recreo Hockey League Championship campaign in successful style as they clinched a 2-1 win at City of Bath on Saturday.

After a physical start to the match, which saw Bath reduced to 10 men after a poor challenge on Swindon's Thomas Lentschner, the visitors took the lead when Chris Parsons drove the ball across the circle for a diving Rob Riddell to redirect into the bottom corner.

Bath came back into it through a penalty stroke which wrong-footed goalkeeper Alan Gough after Riddell's challenge had been penalised.

Swindon then showed a little ill-discipline of their own as Thomas Gillingham was sent from the field, quickly followed by Parsons.

Dave Miles also managed to earn himself a card in the first half within seconds of coming on the pitch but they weathered the storm and managed to retake the lead before half-time with a low strike from Lentschner.

Playing more conservatively in the second half, Swindon kept their hosts at bay.

The Swindon A side were beaten 4-1 at home by Clifton Robinsons C in Central Two.

Swindon B were also winners, defeating Chippenham D 5-4, Dan Bruce scoring twice.

Swindon Ladies 2nd were beaten 3-0 by City of Bath 3 in their West Clubs League Wessex Division One clash.