23 August 2009
GFSN League
Home (Bestwood Lodge)

On a sunny afternoon at Bestwood Lodge, and wearing the new kit for the first time, the Ballbois began their title defence with a comfortable if somewhat unconvincing win over the league newcomers Cardiff Dragons.

The opening goal came on thirteen minutes when James H provided a probing pass for Damian S before under pressure Cardiff put the ball in their own net. This was shortly followed by four goals in an eight minute spell that saw Nottingham take control. A header from Damian S was closely followed by two goals from winger James H before Craig S slotted home the fifth to become the clubs new leading goal scorer on 25.

After half time, Dave S added the sixth goal before the Welshmen started to settle and boss passages of play. Their first goal came about as the result of poor defending at a corner and on the hour they added a second from a free kick just outside the box.

For a spell Nottingham lacked any fluency and their passing game appeared to have deserted them until the final quarter when Damian S added the seventh and Paul B the eighth from a remarkable halfway line punt that caught the Cardiff keeper off his line.

Team: Tony L, Gareth D, Kaz H, Paul B, Scott A, Craig S, Jeff N, AJ, James H, Damien S, Chris L
Subs: Shaun B, Chris W, Rob C, Scott L, Kevin F, Dave S, Andrew M
Goals: Damien S (2), James (2), Craig S, Dave S, Paul B, og

Match gallery (opens in new window, hi-res images downloadable)