Romford Buccaneers head coach Jason Buckman was pleased to see his side start their league campaign with a win at the weekend.

Captain Elliot Dervish opened the scoring against National League Division One South rivals Oxford inside three minutes at the Sapphire Ice & Leisure Centre.

But the visitors hit back to level midway through the first period and it remained all square until the 28th minute, when Dervish converted from close range for his second.

Experienced Slovakian forward Juraj Huska - fourth on the Raiders all-time scoring list - made it 3-1, before Nathan Williams and Bradley Taylor netted a minute apart to widen the gap further.

Oxford replied with a shorthanded goal with just under 10 minutes left, but Buccs saw Donald Campbell, Nils Maskalans and Huska convert on subsequent powerplay chances in the closing stages, with Shay Woolmore also finding the net to seal a 9-2 win as the hosts dominated the shot count 42-18.

"I was relieved to get the first league and cup points on the board after a slow start in the first period," said Buckman.

"With only a few training sessions and no pre-season games the first period was scrappy and it took some time to find our feet.

"The second and third periods we were very effective in the offensive zone and it was nice to see the new guys - Juraj, Nils and Nathan - get on the scoresheet.

"I couldn’t be happier for Juraj to sign back in Romford, after some time out I know he is keen to get back and prove a point.

"The experience he brings along with an eye for goal will be key for this Buccs squad.

"Nils came off a recommendation from former Raider legend Rob Stewart, so I knew he would be a right fit for Romford, and I look forward to seeing him develop throughout the year.”

Buccs face a double-header this weekend as they welcome Invicta on Saturday, before travelling to Solent on Sunday.

"We do have things to work on this coming week in training and look forward to the visit from Invicta," added Buckman.