Heanor Town came away with nothing in their tough opening league fixture at The Moat Ground, against Derbyshire rivals, Gresley Rovers. On an uneven surface, Gresley’s desire to get the ball forward quickly into the box proved to be the difference as they battled to a two goal victory on a warm Tuesday evening.

The Moatmen started on the front foot, forcing a couple of early corners. However, the Lions had the first real chance of the game in 13 minutes as Cheetham broke into the box from midfield only to have his resulting shot blocked.

Gresley took the lead in the 23rd minute when the ball broke to their centre forward, Ryder, in the box. He had time to calmly finish into the bottom corner from ten yards, leaving Pierrepont with no chance.

Heanor attempted to respond as halftime approached, with Tudgay starting, and attempting to finish a slick move - his drive being saved at the near post. Good work from Thatcher on the left, found Sheena free in the box, but he tried to pass rather than shoot and the move broke down.

In the second half Heanor had their best opportunity on 48 minutes. Sleigh improvised a backheel which set Sheena away, running at the Gresley defence. His pass found Tudgay, but the shot was blocked away to safety.

The game began to open up, with both sides having half chances. It looked as though we were in for a close finish before a freak own goal in 83 minutes, put the game beyond doubt for Gresley. A cross from the left wing looked to be covered by Town’s skipper, Sam Brown. However, his attempted volleyed clearance from 20 yards ended up in the top corner of his own net.

A competitive encounter, with limited chances ended with Rovers taking all three points and first home win of their season. Heanor were never outclassed, but struggled to develop their passing game on a bobbly surface.