Greensleeves propelled themselves to the top of the embryonic Championship table with a 3-1 win over Phoenix.
Originally expecting to start the new campaign in league 1, they were eventually promoted after a Pitch invasion reshuffle and faced relegated Premiership side Phoenix in their first match.
Greensleeves struggled to find rhythm in the opening stages, as Phoenix made the running, but they soon go into the game.
The first chance came when Josh picked up the ball deep in his own half, and curled a majestic pass over the defence into the path of Holmesy. Holmesy got there before the keeper, and attepted to score with a delicate lob. Unfortunately the hard surface was not his ally, as the ball bounced agonisingly over. Unlucky.
Holmesy had another opportunity as the ball was sent long, but the 'keeper rushed off his line well.
Greensleeves were soon to be punished. A neat through ball found their runner unmarked and he finished well past Eddie. 0-1.
it was a matter of seconds before Greensleeves were level. dave touched the centre to Matt, who ran at Phoenix as the seemed to be still be celebrating their goal. He shot past the 'keeper to make it 1-1.
It was the impetus they need and they took the lead shortly after. A good move finished when Matt played the ball right to Josh, who took a second to compose himself and slammed the ball into the far corner. 2-1.
Eddie then decided to try and make things interesting by chasing a ball from another pitch as Sam was about to pass it back to him, though concession of another goal was avoided.
Greensleeves went in 2-1 up at half-time.
Greensleeves really started to push for the third and killer goal after the break. Holmesy missed a good chance and one of Dave or Matt should have scored when they had a two on one. Sam linked up with Holmesy well, and sent a cracking drive just past the far post.
Eddie was called into action on a couple of occasions. He rushed out to deny the Phoenix striker well, but then inexplicably turned around and passed back to Matt on the goal-line. Luckily, the equaliser was averted.
The game was over shortly later, as Josh gathered the ball and played it wide to Matt, who cut inside and fired into the roof of the net. 3-1.
Greensleeves were solid in the closing minutes, and saw Phoenix off to secure the 3 points.
MAN OF THE MATCH: Josh combined creativity in the middle of the park with a good defensive shift, and put the icing on the cake with a fine finish. A complete performance.
Greensleeves play the Jaegerbombers next week, and the Pitch Invasion website has this to say about the upcoming fixture- 'The gods of football have smiled upon Greensleeves. They have been blessed with an ability to score, score, score! They will be a force to be reckoned with in this vital game. Jagerbombers will need to pray for victory and, who knows, maybe their prayers will be answered! Heads down and give it your best shot lads. You can do it'
