Marden Bridge's resignation from the league meant that this was our first league game of the season. We were up against the reigning champions Newcastle City FC, formerly Social Studies, so we knew we were in for a tough game.

Garnett started the game brightly, breaching City's defence on numerous occasions. The opening goal of the game came 10 minutes in when a cross from Chris Dawson on the right struck the hand of a City defender resulting in a penalty that was coolly slotted away by Corcoran lad. The swarm of Green and Black on City's goal did not stop, Garnett probing for an opening for goal number two. And in-swinging corner from the trusty left boot of Corcoran mid way through the first half caused panic in the penalty area, the ball dropping to Chris with his back to goal. In a flash he spun and thumped it into the roof of the net. City seemed slightly taken aback by the quality of Garnett's play and any attempt by them to get back into the game proved fruitless. The best chance of the rest of the first half saw Corcoran one on one with the keeper but his 7 step overs failed to fool the advancing keeper and his weak chipped effort was easily saved.

The second half proved to be much the same story. Dawson and Hopkins were looking dangerous when running the flanks, especially when Hopkins picked on the larger than life right back when he noticed how tired he was looking. Everyone was playing their part, the midfield of Walker, Holmes, Wonders and Corcoran all worked tirelessly throughout to break up attacks, and always looked dangerous going forward. On 60 minutes, the final goal of the game came, finally finishing City off. It was delivered on a plate to Dawson when Hopkins broke down the left following a defensive lapse, to square it back past the keeper for the tap into the empty net. Further chances from Hopkins and Corcoran were missed, as was a late free header by City.

Although the skill on display was exceptional it was the work rate that was the real key to victory. This will be vital if we are to carry on winning this season, especially on the wide expanses of Benson Park. Nothing however can be taken for granted, and manager Pollard will have been keeping an eye out for the telltale signs of complacency that will only result in defeat.

In the defence Taff looked as "hard as nails" as ever, Webb looked sharp on his comeback from injury, Roger, needless to say, got injured (harsh, but fair! - Roger), whilst Hepburn in nets commanded his area and his safe handling in tricky conditions helped him pick up a few votes for MOM. Ossarwy, Garnett's second Norwegian called Christian, who seems to love the game, was superb.

Star Man: Christian, Defensive Rock

Team:F.Hepburn, T.Webb, P.Miller (M.Pollard), M.Wonders, A.Alexander, C.Ossarwy MOM, L.Walker, B.Holmes , G.Hopkins, C.Dawson 2, D.Corcoran 1