Neil Collins, manager of South Manchester 2nd, believes he's turned into the MJSL's very own version of Arsene Wenger following his side's opening day disaster.

While Arsenal were busy getting thumped at Old Trafford, Collins' troops were given a footballing lesson by newly formed Republic of Mancunia's second string.

After losing out in the MJSL Charity Shield to Republic's first team, Collins had expected a fierce reaction against the league's new boys.

Instead, Republic ran riot with Daniel Klapisch marking his debut with a classy double, while Andrew Shaffer, Simon Kaye, Steve Garman and Ben Blackston were also on target.

Not even goals from Darren Brewer and Dave Weisberg managed to put a smile on Collins' face as South slumped to a humbling defeat.

"If you just take Arsene Wenger's comments, mine are very similar," said Collins.

"We were humiliated. It was a terrible display although we did have eight players missing.

"Republic totally deserved their victory as they were better man for man with perhaps only a couple of exceptions.

"They were better everywhere and good luck to them. I thought Dan Klapish was head and shoulders above everyone else and was the best player on the pitch.

"Hopefully we'll have most of our players back for Sunday's game against Leeds."

While Collins was left devastated with his team's performance, Republic's 2nd team co-manager Paul Levy was delighted with the outcome.

He said: "We didn't have a clue how we'd play. We just thought we'd turn up and play a game of football but what a great surprise.

"I thought Gary Freeman in central midfield was absolutely outstanding and hopefully now he can keep that up along with the rest of the team.

"It was a great result but it's only the first game of the season so nobody's getting carried away.

"It's just great for the boys because eight of them were with me at Westdene 2nd last year and we had a very difficult season.

"Now they're showing what they can do with a few extra additions and it's looking good."

Meanwhile, title favourites Republic of Mancunia 1st fell to a shock 2-0 defeat against Sporting JLGB.

New signing Adam Herman scored twice for Gavin Sharpe's men as Sporting emerged triumphant in a fiery affair.

"I think this result will send shudders down the spines of other teams in the MJSL and show that we mean business this year," said Sharpe.

"It was a tough game and both teams had chances and a few of our lads were disappointed that they didn't convert their opportunities.

"But it's a great way to start the season and hopefully we can carry on with our good form.

"We've improved every season and there's no reason why we shouldn't finish in the top four."

Reigning champions Manchester Maccabi 3rd begin their title defence against MJSL newcomers Broughton on Sunday.

Steve Bentwood has taken over as manager from Martin Simons and has lost top-scorer Josh Hayes as well as the league's player of the year, Louis Basso.

Elsewhere, Republic's 1st team take on Crumpsall, while Leeds Maccabi 3rd return to the fold with a trip to South Manchester 2nd.