AN ILLUSTRIOUS footballing name was among the starting 11 for Helston Athletic at Plymouth Parkway on Saturday.

Chris McGrath, son of former Manchester United and Ireland defender Paul, made his debut for the Blues as he continues to recover from an Achilles injury.

It was something of a throwback for Helston boss Steve Massey, who played against father Paul in a testimonial match.

"I remember thinking how quick he was. I had four or five yards on him and thought I'd taken a good touch to get away from him, but he was on me in a flash."

Chris, one of five children, is also a central defender and usually plies his trade with Taunton Town, having played for Bideford last season.

But as he continues his rehabilitation, Massey took the opportunity to sign him in the absence of Tom Smith, who was away at his brother's wedding on Saturday.

McGrath will again be included for Helston's trip to Cullompton on Saturday.

"He's a great lad and an absolute spit of his father. He was a little bit slow to get going at Parkway but once he found his feet he was excellent," added Massey, who also gave a debut to 19 year-old full back George Roberts, from St Austell.

Massey was happy with his team's display: "We're getting nearer where we want to be and the lads are playing with much more confidence.

"We dominated for long periods against Parkway and the challenge now is to take that level of performance into our next game at Cullompton on Saturday."

Helston's hopes were hampered by an arduous journey on Saturday, after their team bus broke down in Redruth.

They eventually arrived at the ground at 3pm, giving them only half an hour to prepare for kick-off.