The battle of last seasons champions and challengers saw Burghfield take an opening day win at home to Thames Valley Premier League title holders Finchampstead on Saturday.
Jack Bowyer got the goal for Burghfield who finished third behind Berks County and Finch in the fast-paced finish to the 2020/21 season.
Burghfield manager Steve Melledew said his side did what they needed to do to get the win: “We played to beat Finch, not to the liking of many. Finch have some great talent and it could have gone either way all game. Steve Hunt and their goalkeeper stood out for me, Captain Payne was excellent in midfield, tactically we did what we needed to.”
Maidenhead Town got off to a good start as well, John Swift scored on his debut in a 2-1 win over Woodley United Royals and Sam Angel got the other late on while Adam King scored for the Royals.
Wraysbury started with a win at their new Surrey home – Staines Town FC – beating Windlesham & Chobham 4-2 with a George Dewhurst double and goals from former Langley forward Dean Papali and Stanley Anum while Mortimer drew 1-1 at home to Marlow United and Wargrave lost 3-2 at Richings Park.
Thames Valley Premier League news in brief
- Burghfield boss Steve Melledew has praised local response staff who acted quickly along with parademices to support player James Sayer. The clubs Sunday game with Twyford Comets was abandoned with five minutes remaining.
- Maidenhead Town have swooped to sign forward John Swift from promoted Berks County – the forward scored on his debut
- Reading YMCA are about to embark on their 125th season. A tweet from the Young Men said: “A landmark in the history of our club that everyone involved, past & present, should be hugely proud of!”
- Hurst had the biggest result of the day in Division One beating FC Imaan Lions 6-1
Thames Valley Premier League results
Burghfield 1-0 Finchampstead
Mortimer 1-1 Marlow United
Richings Park 3-2 Wargrave
Woodley United Royals 1-2 Maidenhead Town
Wraysbury 4-2 Windlesham & Chobham
All the weekend fixtures are available here.
