Washington, returned to league play on Sunday with an emphatic 4-0 victory over Police on a wet and windy morning.

Although missing key players Mike Howard and Stewart Bent, Chameleons dominated against a Police side who failed to make any real impression.

Steve Moreton, who collected a hat-trick, opened the scoring after just 45 seconds following a cross from the right by newcomer Alastair Younie who had skilfully gone past Police defender Steve Cosham. The ball was sent low and hard into the circle from where Moreton despatched it high into the net.

Chameleons continued to apply pressure and came close to increasing their lead on several occasions following well-practised short corner routines, but were thwarted by the efforts of veteran Police goalkeeper Davy Kerr.

Police came more into the game towards the end of the half, but sound defending from newly-returned Tony Readwin and Dipak Patel kept them at bay.

The second half saw a tactical substitution of Ivor Ballon for Dave Eaton which allowed Chameleons' sweeper Peter Norris to more forward, and this resulted in a second goal from Moreton, again assisted by Younie.

Chameleons then put the result beyond doubt with a third goal by captain Gary White whose shot from the top of the circle gave 'keeper Kerr no chance.

Police continued to battle but Chameleons' superior fitness meant that their defence was rarely threatened.

With ten minutes remaining Ricky Armstrong replaced James Broadbelt and played an important part in Moreton's third goal. A defence splitting pass released Moreton who coolly dummied the 'keeper and placed the ball low into the net.

Chameleons have now netted 14 goals in three games but could face a more challenging test when they take on Wasps in this Sunday's 3.00 p.m. match. In Sunday's other league encounter, Wasps were comfortable winners over Upstarts 4-1 with goals from Albert Steede and Gordie Shaw. Upstarts replied through Roger Cash playing only his third game of hockey.