TIDENHAM Reserves made a resounding start to their defence of the F J Pope Cup with an 8-1 thrashing of Littledean.

The visitors were still in the game at half-time with the score at 3-1 but five unanswered goals after the break sealed victory for the holders.

Tidenham captain David Drewell opened the scoring with a lob over Littledean 'keeper for his first of two goals.

Gavin Dash and Craig Hanson also got a couple each with Jason Berry and Danny Carling completing the scoring.

Daniel James picked up a consolation goal for the visitors.

The firsts made it a cup double for the club by progressing to the next round of the Intermediate County Cup.

They travelled to Cheltenham where they beat Charlton Rovers 1-2 with goals from Nick Hanson and Dan Jacobs.