Dan Evans of St George's College (left) challenges Dunoon's Kemar Orane in their Manning Cup encounter at Winchester Park on Monday. St George's won 5-2. - ricardo makyn

Manchester High kicked off action in Zone F with a bang, achieving their biggest daCosta Cup win when they smashed Cross Keys High 10-0 in Mandeville yesterday.

Cross Keys were returning to the competition after a few years' absence and were expected to concede goals. However, Manchester's approach was ruthless and should be a tough act to follow, based on the other zone results.

Belair beat Bellefield

Belair produced the surprise result of the zone as they lead Bellefield 3-1 before the game ended in an exciting 3-3 draw. deCarteret College defeated host Porus 3-1 for a share of the early lead with Manchester High.

The highlight of Manchester's performance was a hat-trick by Kevon Mendez and a double strike by substitute Shane Cousins. Four goals were scored in the first 20 minutes, beginning with Mendez's first after eight minutes, and single strikes by Remawn Thomas (13th), Dave Morgan (18th) and André Beckford (19th).

Cross Keys weathered the early onslaught, keeping Manchester High at bay until the 51st minute when Mendez struck for a second time. Another three goals came within the next eight minutes to ensure it was a one-sided contest.

Coach Barry Watson told Star Sports he was happy with his team's approach, especially in the first half and believes the stage has been set for another excellent season for his team.