Tobias gives Leeds Maccabi flying start to MJSL season - The Jewish Chronicle

Tobias proved too hot to handle all afternoon as the winger carved out Rob Selwyn's early headed opener.

Leeds dominated and it was no surprise to see James Landes curled home a fine free-kick.

Tobias then got in on the act after pouncing on slack defending but Anton Radiven's side, much to their credit, refused to throw in the towel as Ben Gould grabbed a consolation.

Leeds boss Kristall said: "It's about setting the standard straight away in the first game. You want to get the job done and we did well.

"Tobias was superb and he will cause a lot of teams problems. We have high hopes of him."

South Manchester Sports 1st are hotly tipped to be vying for the MJSL title, but they were given a real scare by Maccabi Manchester Blue.

Debutant Jonathan Franks continued where he left off by scoring twice for South in their 3-2 win.

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THIS SEASON'S RUNNERS & RIDERS

SEDGLEY PARK CELTIC

Featuring a young and hungry squad, the majority of the players tasted success as national champions at under-11 through to U15 level. Now the same players, following their time at University, are back and looking for a repeat at senior level.

One to watch: Jack Burman

Verdict: Back in the MJSL and under the guidance of Stuart Shapiro, Sedgley could emerge as dark horses for honours.

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LEEDS MACCABI

Losing Louis Hewson is a blow, but with the arrivals of Marcus Shaffner and Zac Tobias boosting a strong squad already containing Adam Shiffman, expect the Yorkshireman to be vying at the top end.

One to watch: Adam Shiffman

Verdict: Challenged for the title last season and will be looking to go one better once again under Adam Kristall

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HAROLDEANS

Mike Bloomberg be targeting success in the Peter Morrison Trophy and the Merseysiders have high hopes for 16-year-old goalkeeper Jared Clein in his debut season.

One to watch: Adam Boyars

Verdict: The defending MJSL champions might not have it all their own way this year.

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REICH

Now playing under one umbrella after the blue and white teams disbanded. Both Reich clubs spent last season playing catch-up as they were pipped to the title. Now they will need a fast start to ensure there is no repeat. A summer shake-up has resulted in the average age of the squad has been slashed.

One to watch: Dan Feddy

Verdict: Any talk of the title could be a tall order

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PRESTFIELD

VERDICT: Blew hot and cold in their maiden season last term. Losing the goals of Jonny Franks could hit Zac Marks side hard so a season of struggle could beckon.

One to watch: Marcus Buchanan

VERDICT: Will hope to be a stiffer proposition this time around

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MACCABI MANCHESTER BLUE

Last season's Tony Cohen Cup winners will be up against it when it comes to the league.

One to watch: Ethan Mann

VERDICT: Will be targeting silverware in the cup competitions

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SOUTH MANCHESTER SPORTS 1ST

Back from a stint playing in the Accountants League, a recruitment drive has seen the likes of prolific striker Jonny Franks snapped up to lead the attack with Adam Tauber arriving to add experience to the defence. Marc Magid’s men will be the side to beat.

One to watch: Jonny Franks

Verdict: Will be title contenders

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MACCABI MANCHESTER YELLOW

Anton Radiven's side are known for their fighting skills but this year need to find the quality to match. A mid-table finish their new hope in the league.

One to watch: Ben Gould

Verdict: A cup run appears seems their best hope

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SOUTH MANCHESTER SPORTS 2ND

Have proven cannon fodder in recent times, registering just one victory throughout last season, but their harbour bigger ambitions under the tutelage of Phil Gordon and Jeremy Isaacs.

One to watch: Jack Isaacs

Verdict: Expect better things this time