Two-goal James Constable admitted it was a relief to get off the mark, and said to have all three forwards scoring in Oxford United's 6-1 Carling Cup win over Bristol Rovers was a massive bonus.

The U's skipper, who hit 26 goals last season – 29 but three against Chester were chalked off - has been questioned by some in the game – including Stockport and former Shrewsbury boss Paul Simpson – over whether he can reproduce his scoring form at League level.

But his response, along with the team’s, was emphatic, against League One Rovers, who were put to the sword.

Midfielder Simon Heslop also bagged a brace, with strikers Matt Green and Jack Midson also getting off the mark for the new campaign.

Constable said: “It is a relief to get that first goal. In the first game you’re always desperate to get a goal to kickstart your season. It didn’t happen Saturday, and obviously second game you’re desperate to score as well.

“We’re just delighted how it went and we go forward to this Saturday’s match against Bury with loads of confidence.”

Asked whether it was one of the best results of his career, ‘Beano’ replied: “I would say so. Before the game we were feeling good about getting a result of some sort, we weren’t worried about Rovers coming here. We knew we played well last Saturday, we just maybe lacked that killer finish or bit of luck in front of goal.

“This time we got the bounce of the ball first half and we took our chances well. It was nice to see all three strikers get on the scoresheet.”

United had predicted the match would tell them where they are, as it had been hard to gauge last season, stuck in the Blue Square Premier.