Bedford Tn 1, Thame Utd 0

Defeat was no disgrace for Thame in their opening game, an excellent contest between two teams likely to be among the Ryman Division 1 promotion contenders this season.

The match was settled by a goal from Eddie Lawsley in the 24th minute that had more than a hint of offside in it.

United opened the stronger, showing neat interpassing which provided early chances for John Mitchell and Chris Fontaine, who was denied by a super save from keeper James Heeps.

The home side's first raid spelled trouble for United's defence when a Kevin Slinn flick-on found Carl Drew, but his effort struck a post.

When Bedford went ahead, Drew looked to be offside as he raced clear. His pull-back found Lawley who slid the ball home from close range. A well-worked corner gave Mark West a chance but he hooked his effort over.

Ian Moores was called into action in the 38th minute, making two great reaction saves from Slinn and Drew.

Heeps saved well from Mitchell, and Moores again saved well from Lawley as both keepers excelled.

United dominated the later stages and some desperate home defending saw Paul Covington clear Nando Perna's goalbound effort off the line.

In the final minute a clever Justin Lee free-kick was met by Wayne Cort and, with Heeps finally beaten, the ball squirmed agonisingly wide.

Thame Utd: Moores, Williams G, Potter (Concannon 70), Brown, Williams A, Avery, Merritt, West, Mitchell (Cort 80), Perna, Fontaine (Lee 62).