BURY men's hockey team began the defence of their Summer League title with a comfortable, if not commanding victory against Leyland last week.

In truth, Bury should have been out of sight before half time, with several chance being squandered, after James Oakes had given Bury an early lead with a powerful strike from the edged of the circle.

With Sam Plant, James Larmett and Oakes going close, Bury were piling on the pressure with keeper Dan Taylor having very little to do.

However, the second half started in the worst possible fashion for Bury, when they were punished for not taking their chances. Leyland broke down a Bury attack, quickly countered and saw a deflected shot wrong-foot Taylor to give them an equaliser.

Bury responded well, with more chances being created as Simon Major, Rob Bradburn and Toby Carr-Brown combining well.

Further goals from Carr-Brown and a debut Summer League goal from Plant sealed the result.

Bury face a tough challenge against Blackburn this week.