ELLON made the most of home advantage to launch its season with a six try flourish in seeing off Linlithgow who were widely tipped to be promotion contenders.
New coach Mike Avis was delighted to have seen his charges make a winning start.
''The team played with shape and authority, as planned in the paddock. Our control was good, tight when required, but we were able to open out when required and spread the ball to good effect,'' said Avis.
The only downside to the comprehensive win was the manner in which the Meadows men eased off when 44 - 3 up, going into the final stages.
''We probably need to be more clinical,'' said veteran prop and captain Bob Kenny, ''but it's a good start against a side who never gave up. It was a relief to finally get the season under way,'' he added.
The experienced Todd Paterson opened the floodgates for the home side when he nipped over after good work at the back of a lineout.
The scrum half was pivotal to the win, adding a second try in the second half, as was his half back partner Mark Ryan who in addition to getting his quota of place kicks - four conversions and two penalties was instrumental in keeping his back division supplied with good ball.
Winger David Yuill was a beneficiary, scoring two fine tries, as Ellon cruised into the break 20 - 3 up.
The relentless pressure continued in the second half with new boy Kyle Bayliss also getting on the scoresheet.
Flanker Glen Douglas had the final say with his side's last try before the West Lothian side launched a mini comeback, scoring two late tries to give head coach Avis something to think about in the week ahead, although he conceded it ''had been a good start to the new season, and a great team effort.''