A win’s a win but the Whites will know they need to raise their performance level if they are to pick up many more of them over the next eight months.
The higher standard of North Wilts League Division 1 was underlined by newly-promoted FC Calne, who rightly felt they should have emerged from the Sportsfield with something to show for their efforts – particularly after a second half that saw plenty of activity in and around the Colts box.
In contrast to a number of games involving newcomers to 9v9 football, a close and at times physical contest was settled by a moment of first-half magic.
George threaded a fine pass through to new signing Liam, who showed terrific composure and trademark balance to sidestep the advancing Calne keeper before casually rolling the ball home.
The Colts had already carved out a couple of decent chances, with Brandon M grazing the crossbar after racing clear, Luke VDB cutting in from the left for a shot the keeper did well to parry away and Matthew and Bradley both testing the Calne number one with free-kicks.
But the visitors were quicker to the ball and better in possession throughout and Max, who had a fine game between the posts, was grateful to see a couple of efforts go just wide.
Colts were forced back from the restart as Calne pushed for an equaliser and were limited to route-one attacks, reliant on the pace of Callum, Liam and Luke VDB and the long ball over the top.
Tom and Luke produced a heroic defensive effort and, supported by Matthew, made countless blocks and interceptions as the visitors probed without creating a single clear-cut chance. Behind them, Max’s handling was assured.
Brandon H and Toby worked hard in a midfield that was overrun at times, while the number of bumps and bruises sustained by Colts players highlighted their determination to keep a clean sheet.
Keep it they did and the final whistle brought both relief to the home supporters and the Colts’ first points as a North Wilts League side.
Parents’ man of the match: Tom.