Last updated on .From the section Conference

Cambridge began their ninth year in the Conference Premier with a thumping 5-1 win against promoted FC Halifax, who played for 69 minutes with nine men.

The visitors took an early lead through Lee Gregory, but Danny Lowe was sent off for a foul in the box and Adam Cunnington scored from the spot.

Halifax keeper Matt Glennon saw red in similar circumstances, but Cunnington was denied a second by sub Tom Morgan.

Ryan Donaldson, a Delano Sam-Yorke brace and Cunnington completed the win.

It was an eventful debut for striker Cunnington, who was prolific in the Conference Premier for Tamworth last season and

Substitute Sam-Yorke, a summer signing from Basingstoke, also marked his first appearance for the club with two goals, his second a powerful left-footed strike.