Walsall Wood 1 Tenbury United 2

AFTER a slow start Tenbury opened up a two goal lead before the interval, but then withstood a second half on-slaught from the home team before opening their account in the newly formed Division 1 of the West Midlands League.

United played second fiddle in the early stages against opponents who had already won twice. Their defence stood firm to stifle the Walsall attacks before they struck back to net twice before the break.

New signing Andy Hodgetts gained possession on the edge of the box, beat his man and fired in a shot which the keeper could only parry, allowing Ashley Botwood to net with his left foot. The same player extended the lead with his right foot, when Graham Caldicott laid the ball into his path. Byron Davies made a couple of good saves between the two goals.

The home team pushed forward after the break but found the heart of the Tenbury defence in prime form. After failing to penetrate the defence they resorted to long-ball tactics in the latter stages and reduced the arrears when they netted from a rebound.

Tenbury still looked dangerous on the break but Hodgetts' control let him down when he seemed likely to score. Davies made one fine late save to secure the win. United now face two away games, at Wednesbury on Saturday and Wyrley Rangers next Tuesday.

Tenbury Reserves lost 6-0 to Birch Coppice in their opening Kidderminster Division 1 fixture.