Ashton Prime 4-1 Penshurst Park Reserves

Ashton Prime's 2007 fixtures finally got under way with the venue switched to Hilbert Rec with the pitch at Bayham still unplayable.

Prime had gone 8 weeks without a game but started the year in fine style with a comfortable victory.

The long lay-off had given Prime a boost with skipper Skovborg-Hansen amongst others fit to return.

Prime pressurised early on, but it was not until mid-way through the first half that they made their superiority pay.

Goldsmith flicked inside to Smith-Foreman who showed great vision to release Skovborg-Hansen, and he finished calmly beyond the keeper.

Penshurst - a side much improved from their 7-2 drubbing earlier on in the season caused Prime problems and needed Bishop and Gilbert to be on their guard, assisted by Barr and Moaby having an impressive game at left-back.

Prime went in 1-0 up at the break, but with the wind at their backs in the 2nd half, they pinned Penshurst back and a blatant handball gave Goldsmith the chance to double the lead - and he made no mistake.

Smith-Foreman, who had earlier spurned a good chance, was rewarded for his persistence when a mix-up between the Penshurst defence and keeper allowed him in to roll in number 3.

Prime were now rampant and centre-back Chris Gilbert stormed down the right wing before curling over a perfect cross for Smith-Foreman to head home his 2nd.

The visitors were denied a consolation when the ref adjusdged Gilbert to have handled in the box, when Leigh made a good stop from the spot kick.

They did find the net in the dying minutes as Prime's tired defence failed to clear and it was bundled home.

The win should take Prime off the bottom of the league and the prospects for the new year are looking brighter.

Prime Man of the Match: Chris Gilbert - Impeccable at the back and rampant going forward!