Barton's 3rd team opened their league campaign with a difficult home game against a good Melton side, and the experienced team selected reflected the quality of the opposition.

Melton's start to the game confirmed the worst as they scored twice in the first 10 minutes. The first goal was scored by a pacey centre forward breaking away to score, giving debutant goal keeper Nathan Dawson no chance. The second came from the penalty spot shortly after.

Barton's defence began to get to grips with the opposition and this allowed us to get a foothold in the game with good ball retention, stringing several passes together, with Terry Simms holding the ball up front and then bringing the midfield into the game. It was the two youngest members of the team who changed the game, with Scott Lane's energy in the midfield and Henry Harrison's goal threat up front both combining with Harrison getting behind Melton's defence to pull the ball back for Lane to fire the ball home. Barton began to press forward and a good passing move found Harrison in front of the Melton goal and he made no mistake in slotting the ball home.

The second half saw a more even game with both teams having chances to take the lead which Barton took from their first short corner of the game. A well rehearsed move saw Terry Simms passing the ball to Steve Farrington who managed to squeeze a shot past the keeper. Barton were able to manage the game, holding out for a well deserved win mainly because of a great team spirit which bodes well for the rest of the season.