His Dark Blue counterpart Sam McLennan is part of the Oxford reserve crew, Isis, after a back injury spoiled his training in the run-up to the race.

BBC: Cambridge hold weight edge

Gainsborough Trinity also began their season in Blue Square Bet North with victory, with Jefferson Louis and Sam Aiston on target in the first half of their 2-1 win at Worcester City.

BBC: Church strikes to give Boston United first-day win