Denny Escorcio returned to deliver a cracking cameo to help March Town make a winning start to 2016.

The former Hares favourite, who now lives in Portuguese capital Lisbon, was back in the area over the festive period.

And he scored one goal and made another as the Hares eased to a 4-2 success against Downham Town in the Thurlow Nunn League First Division.

Bartlett said: “Denny is a very good player and it was great to have him back for a game. He played very well as did the whole team and we were more convincing winners than the scoreline might suggest.

“It was a dour first half, but we got on top after the break and the confidence suddenly came flooding back as we started to find the net.

“It was good to start the year with a win and show a bit of intent.”

Escorcio broke the deadlock when converting a volleyed cross from the impressive Josh Jackman.

Matt Barber doubled the Hares’ advantage before Downham hit back with a goal from a wrongly-awarded corner.

Barber’s second gave Bartlett’s men breathing space before Jackman sealed victory with a fine effort from 20 yards. Downham grabbed a last-gasp consolation.

March travel to face bottom side Needham Market Reserves on Saturday, 3pm, before completing their run of three games against struggling sides next Saturday as Cornard visit the GER Ground.

Bartlett added: “They are three games we should win on paper, but you cannot take any team lightly. Needham Market are bottom and lost 9-0 last weekend, but you’re never sure what players they may have in from their first team.”