Hertfordshire Cheetahs AFC made a flying start to the 2017 season as they thrashed Hastings Conquerors 63-0.

The British American Football Association National League SFC Two side were in control from the off as they ran in nine unanswered touchdowns.

Dan Levett was their star performer, scoring three times, while Conor Wilson (2), Chris Ossom, Charles Handscombe, TJ Ajayi and Ben Brown also registered.

The St Albans outfit dominated in attack and defence, with their running backs repeatedly causing havoc.

The opening day victory comes after the Cheetahs comes after a 2016 campaign spent in transition and interim head coach, Roger Brown, was delighted with the display.

He said: “It’s clearly a great, emotional result for the team, a much-needed shot in the arm after last year’s rebuilding season.

“It has allowed us to gain some confidence in the hard work and dedication of the whole club.

“However, the result may say more about the opposition than it does us, so we remain cautiously optimistic and unmoved from our mission to truly improve.”

The Cheetahs face a daunting test against a Berkshire Renegades side who are expected to perform well this season on Easter Sunday.