WINCHESTER City boss Craig Davis had expected to be starting the new season at Mangotsfield United – but ended up in hospital with stomach pain instead.

In his absence, the Citizens did him proud, opening the Evo-Stik Division One South campaign with a 2-1 win.

“It wasn’t a classic, but ultimately three very valuable points,” said director of football Dave Malone.

After a scrappy, goalless first half, City fell into 54th-minute arrears when Mangos’ debutant Colin Mugoya took advantage of some slack defending.

City’s assistant boss John McFarlane boldly introduced two attacking subs, Tyrell Mitford and Reece Rusher,and, after United had spurned a chance to increase their lead, Oli Bailey levelled things up for the visitors on 59 minutes.

Sensing the points were there for the taking, Winchester pushed on and ex-Team Solent man Mitford showed some real quality to win it, sending a measured, low shot past keeper Cameron Clarke with nine minutes of normal time remaining.

Writing to City’s fans on the club message board, Davis said: “Strange old day for me, have never missed a game in all my career for any reason, so it was extremely unpleasant in so many ways!

"All the planning and preparation paid off though and well done to Macca for overseeing the result!”

On Tuesday (7.45pm) City host newly-promoted FA Vase holders Thatcham Town who lost their opener 1-0 at home to Yate having had Scott Rees red-carded for an off-the-ball incident.