Wanderers kicked off the season with a hard-fought victory against a spirited Finchampstead side.

The first half was an evenly contested affair, with Dave Griffiths and Darren Wakley made to work hard in the middle of the midfield.  At the back Mark Timms was well protected as Finchampstead were reduced to a couple of long range efforts.

In attack Wanderers were frustrated by an over zealous linesman, as Paul Martin and Anthony Prior were unable to produce any clear-cut chances.  The passing and movement from Wanderers was excellent though, and Ian Griffiths and Jamie Ryall offered excellent energy on the wings.

With ten minutes remaining in the first period, Wanderers were denied a goal by the linesman's flag.  As a ball was played over the top, Martin retreated from an offside position and Prior out-jumped the Finch 'keeper to head into the net.  The half-time score was probably fair enough on the balance of play.

Wanderers started the second half as the brighter of the two teams, and they took the lead ten minutes in.  Ryall played a good pass to Prior on the left, who beat the last defender before squeezing a shot in between the 'keeper and near post.

The Blues were quick to extend their lead, although the second goal was somewhat controversial.  Dave Griffiths took the ball over the touchline, but neither the referee nor Linesman called the decision.  As Finch appealed, Griffiths crossed for his brother Ian to tap home.

Wanderers were dominating the game now, with some fine flowing football and resolute defending.  Tom Mansfield was introduced in place of Darren Wakley.

A third goal looked likely, and arrived with twenty minutes remaining.  Paul Martin helped to release Dave Griffiths, who ran through to finish for a deserved debut goal.  At 3-0, Wanderers reverted to a 4-5-1 formation as Clint Falcus replaced Jamie Ryall, and Prior moved onto the left wing.

Finchampstead looked to force their way back into the game in the final stages, and the Blues' back four battled well to keep them out. 

With ten minutes left, the hard-working Paul Martin was replaced by Lewis Trusty.

As Finchampstead continued to press, they were finally rewarded with a low shot from the edge of the area which beat Timms.

The goal proved to be no more than consolation, and Wanderers held on for a deserved victory.  A fantastic result to start the campaign with.

TEAM: Mark Timms, Chris Hillsdon, Dan van der Laan O'Donnell, Andy Corless, Chris Orbell, Ian Griffiths, Darren Wakley, Dave Griffiths, Jamie Ryall, Anthony Prior, Paul Martin.

SUBS: Tom Mansfield (for Wakley), Clint Falcus (for Ryall) and Lewis Trusty (for Martin).