Winning start for the Eagles...

After a difficult pre-season Arnold put in a bright and breezy performance to register an opening day victory at Radcliffe a team who similar to ourselves are rebuilding after wholesale losses during the close season.

Manager Tom Richardson picked himself, and we had the experience of Josh Watts and Gary Sucharewyzc in the centre of the defence. Arnold made a good start and were ahead on 6 minutes through a bullet header from Max Pashley after a great delivery from Jack Upton.

On 16 minutes the Eagles doubled their lead. A quick break saw a shot hit the post and the on rushing Jawanza Grant gleefully followed up.

Arnold were doing all the pressing but Radcliffe started to come more in to the game.

The host gained a lifeline when veteran Julian Joachin expertly curled a free kick home after 29 minutes to reduce arrears.

Radcliffe's keeper pulled off some smart saves before Jawanza scored his second just before half-time with another finish from close range.

Second half saw a host of chances with David Boafo and Jourdan Blair linking up well and Arnold's industrious midfield worked hard throughout as we looked to hold on to our advantage.

Some encouraging performances from all the Arna lads was well received by a good Arnold following who appreciated the efforts of the team.

A 3-1 win on day one and the Eagles now face three home games with last seasons champions West Bridgford the first to visit Eagle Valley on Tuesday evening...ko 7.45pm

Today's squad:
Christopher Beighton
Jourdan Blair
Aiden Blewitt
David Boafo
James Elliott
Jawanza Grant 15,39
Max Pashley 6
Gary Sucharewycz
Jack Upton
Joshua Watts
Thomas Richardson

Eugene Francis
Jason Jude
Tristan Whitman