EXPECTATIONS are running high at Tiger Way after an excellent pre-season with friendlies against some of the region's top sides and a convincing opening game victory yesterday (Saturday) in the South West Peninsular Premier East division.

Axminster Town made the perfect start to the new season with a 5-2 win over Torrington before a crowd of 76.

Aaron Daniels won the man-of-the-match award for his two goals with new signing Craig Veal (2, including a penalty) and Jamie Price also getting on the scoresheet.

Manager Dan Prettejohn was delighted with the performance. He said afterwards: "It was fantastic to be back and a brilliant start. We looked like we could score every time we attacked.

"Our debutants - Craig Veal, Ben Palmer and Sam Steele - were first class. It was great to see so much support at Tiger Way.

"We are now looking forward to a local derby on Wednesday away to Cullompton where we welcome back three players - Oscar Latas, Joe Chamberlain and Tom Edwards."

During the afternoon, the club's new president Les Bounds unveiled the "Roy McLennan" stand in honour of his long-serving predecessor who has now stood down after a lifetime of service to the Tigers.

The Tigers' next home game will be against Newton Spurs on Saturday, August 20.

Last season Axminster finished in sixth pace in the South West Peninsular Premier East division, their highest ever position, but with a strengthened squad they will be looking to improve on this in the new season.

The raffle for the club's main sponsor attracted support from 17 companies with Climax Windows being drawn out of the hat.