HAYES, Clarendon — Andrew Isaacs scored a hat-trick as Jamalco FC opened the defence of their Clarendon FA/Captain’s Bakery Major League title with an easy 6-0 victory over Treadlight FC on Saturday at the Wembley Centre of Excellence.

But there was also a big surprise on opening day after Sporting Central Academy, one of the title favourites, could only manage a draw in their contest.

Playing in the first game of the double header, the relegated Red Stripe Premier League (RSPL) side struggled to a 1-1 tie with lowly Woodhall FC.

Hayden Rhoden gave them the lead in the 24th minute, but failed to build on that momentum and they eventually conceded the equaliser when Richard Dennis got Woodhall on the scoresheet in the 35th.

Despite the stalemate, Sporting, who are seeking an immediate return to the RSPL following last season’s relegation, are still favoured to cop one of the two quarter-final spots from Zone C. They will also come up against Bucknor United, Moores United and Original Hazard in the preliminary round.

But while Sporting will be playing catch-up in their group, title rivals Jamalco will be leading from the front as they chase a place in the premiership for the first time.

The defending champions routed Treadlight with a performance that suggested they might have more in their tank and will be anxiously awaiting their next game against perennial foes New Bowens FC.

Renoir Elliot set the stage for this victory over Treadlight with a second-minute opener, before Isaacs stole the show with his treble in the 31st, 41st and 59th. Second-half substitute Demar Stone added a late brace to complete the win.

Jamalco will also face Lionel Town, formerly Monymusk FC, and promoted Division One champions Savannah Cross in Zone B.