Ashton Prime 4-0 Roselands Reserves

The Numbers got their season off to a successful start with a workmanlike display at Hilbert Rec.

Prime were missing Gilbert and Carl Barker, but importantly Kerton had recovered from his injured collarbone to take his place between the sticks.

Abu made his competitive debut in a strong-looking midfield, with Goldsmith joining Excell up front.

Prime started well and looked dangerous from the off. They went ahead after 10 minutes when Goldsmith's overhead flick deceived the Roselands centre-back and Excell kept his cool to slot home beyond the onrushing keeper. It was his first competitive goal for 9 months after a barren end to last season.

Prime's confidence was up and they soon doubled their lead when Kneebone's snap-shot was saved well by the keeper, but the rebound hit their defender and flew into the net.

The visitors were now rocking and Prime could and should have increased their lead. First Goldsmith's back post header from the quick-thinking Kneebone's corner drifted agonisingly wide and then Excell's bullet header from his strike-partner's long throw grazed the crossbar.

But Prime were guilty of hitting long balls and trying to go for glory, when a simple pass was the better option, and this let Roselands back into the game.

Luckily for Prime, their defence looked watertight with Barnham winning everything in the air and Davis rock-solid. Garside made an encouraging return to form, but it was the reluctant centre-back Mazurkiewicz who shone - looking a different class to the Roselands strikers.

Abu and Walker worked tirelessly in the middle and although not at their best, both Walters and Kneebone were posing a threat to the Roselands full-backs.

Prime went in 2 up and they knew the next goal would be crucial.

The Tonbridge outfit started brightly, but Kerton only had to make one save from a long-distance free kick.

The skipper took himself off after shanking a volley horribly wide, giving Lower a run on the right, with Kneebone moved up front.

Lower impressed again and will be pressing for a starting spot next week.

Prime were slightly lucky to claim their 3rd goal, with Roselands half-stopping as they sought to make a change. But the whistle never went and Kneebone sprinted clear and slotted home.

Sander replaced the hard-working Walters and he got his name on the score-sheet when Kneebone burst through again. His shot was skewing horribly wide, but luckily Sander was on hand to finish well with his left foot from a tight angle.

Postelthwaite got his Prime debut in the closing stages and he had a few good touches as Prime comfortably saw out the remaining time.

All in all, a good win for Prime who never really got out of second gear. Next week will be a tougher challenge at old rivals Frant.

Man of the Match: Mazurkiewicz - Made it all look a bit too easy at times!