Oldbury United (2) 3 Bromsgrove Rovers (0) 3

Midland Alliance

ROVERS started well at The Cricketts in their Midland Alliance season opener on Saturday, but it was Oldbury who snatched the lead in this six-goal thriller.

In the eighth minute Stuart Grosvenor's cross-shot deceived everybody, including keeper Mathew Lowe, and found the corner of the net.

Oldbury's keeper, Ian Simms, produced a double save from Fraser McHugh and Paul Moore in the tenth minute to preserve United's advantage.

The home side doubled their lead in the 16th minute when Dave Jackson volleyed home from six yards.

Rovers continued to create chances as McHugh and Michael Moore went close. But somehow the Oldbury goal remained unbreached.

Oldbury had the first chance in the second period when Hesson latched on to ex-Greens defender Alan Kurila's long throw and hit the outside of the post.

Rovers again upped the tempo with Paul Moore and Paul Lloyd going close.

Bromsgrove pulled a goal back on 70 minutes when Lloyd chipped into the area. Michael Moore found Paul Moore at the far post who made no mistake.

Moments after the restart, Lowe was called into action and he made a great save at the feet of Hesson.

Rovers were soon level when Kurila brought down Matt Coppin in the area and Michael Moore converted the penalty.

On 80 minutes Oldbury snatched the lead again when Cresser scored from 25 yards. Straight from the kick-off Rovers forced a corner and Michael Moore's shot was cleared off the line by Jamie Nicholls.

Rovers equalised a minute before time when Coppin threaded a through ball to McHugh. He picked his spot and placed the ball past Simms.

The visitors still had time to force a couple of corners but Oldbury held out.

Rovers: Lowe, Porter, Lloyd, Frost, Brookes, Hillman, Coppin, McHugh, P Moore, M Moore, Wright (sub Banner 73 mins). Subs not used: Sumnall, McGettrick.

Attendance: 175. Rovers MoM: Fraser McHugh.