HEYSHAM Atoms got their home campaign off to a flying start on Saturday with an impressive 40-4 win over mid-table Eccleston Lions propelling the Atoms to third place in the league.

The North West Counties rugby league game started brighly for the Atoms as the forwards made good yards and Andy Garnet opened the scoring in the 13th minute with a well taken try down the left wing.

Dave McVernon was revelling in space in the middle of the park, running at a pack that struggled to contain him all afternoon.

And it wasn't long before he srode through a static defence to register his first try of the afternoon as Atoms dominated.

Matt Craven returned to the team at centre and, although not on the score sheet, was many people's man of the match with his numerous breaks and aggressive defending.

Eccleston showed what they could offer with a spell of posession just before half time which resulted in a an unconverted try, but it was the Atoms who led 28-4 at the break.

Further tries were added by Garnett and McVernon, an undertaker by trade, to bury the Lions with respective hat-tricks.

The man of the match award went to Russell Birkett for his hard work at loose forward.

This week the Atoms are away to Wigan Keepers Bulldogs, kick off 2.30pm on Saturday.