CIRENCESTER'S new striker fired down Bristol Rovers 2-0 as the Centurions sprang a pre-season upset at the Corinium Stadium last night.

Scott Griffin's 17th-minute goal put Brian Hughes' side on course for an excellent win over a Rovers outfit containing several first-teamers, including former Swindon loanee Wayne Carlisle.

Griffin, a summer signing from Cinderford, got off the mark after collecting Mike Davis' through-ball and slotting a low drive beyond visiting keeper Ryan Clarke.

Gareth Hopkins doubled the lead in spectacular fashion before the interval, smashing an angled shot into the top corner of the Pirates' net from range.

The Division Three club introduced more of their big guns during the second half, and Carlisle and Simon Bryant both went close to reducing arrears.

Ciren defender Andy Minturn could have extended the lead before the death, but his effort was smothered by Clarke as the hosts eased to an impressive victory.

The Centurians continue their preparations for the new Dr Martens League campaign at home to Hellenic neighbours Cirencester United on Saturday.

OTHER RESULTS

UEFA Champions League

First Qualifying Round, First Leg: BATE Borisov 1 Bohemians 0; CS Grevenmacher 0 Leotar 0; Dinamo Tbilisi 3 Melkadze 6; SK Tirana 0 Glentoran 0; HJK Helsinki 0 HB Torshavn 0; FBK Kaunas 1; Omonia Nicosia 0 Irtysh Pavlodar 0; Pyunik 1 KR Reykjavik 0; Sheriff Tiraspol 1 FC Flora Tallinn 0; Sliema Wanderers 2 Skonto Riga 0; Vardar 3 Barry Town 0.

Selected friendlies: Arundel 1 Brighton 5; Chard Town 0 Yeovil 7; Chorley 0 Preston 5; Cirencester 2 Bristol Rov 0; Cologne 1 Liverpool 3; Diss Town 1 Norwich 3; Exmouth Tn 0 Torquay 4.