Magic moments by Webster but hard work also counts in win

A BRILLIANT double by Charlie Webster, with two strikes from outside the box, sealed an opening day win for Burton Albion at home to Mansfield Town.

- By COLSTON CRAWFORD

Aside from the goals, worthy of winning any match, it was a victory the Brewers just about deserved for a spirited, hardworking performance, as they had the upper hand for periods of the game and then withstood a late fightback by the Stags, who pulled a goal back with 14 minutes left.

Not only was this the first opening day win for four years, it was the first time Albion have won a League match in August in that time, too - a staggering statistic which emphasises their struggles of recent campaigns.

This win obviously does not mean everything is sorted but it was hugely welcome.

The Brewers were without Terence Vancooten and Dylan Williams with knocks - manager Gary Bowyer had referred to two being doubtful earlier in the week.

New signing Tyrese Shade was on the bench and otherwise the lineup was much as might have been expected.

Last season’s captain, Ryan Sweeney, led out Mansfield as their new skipper and their lineup looked like that of a team in transition with a number of older players no longer involved and five making their debuts.

But the Stags made an urgent start, not passing back from kickoff, and Burton were fortunate 40 seconds in when Will Evans miskicked from six yards with only Jordan Amissah to beat and the ball trickled into the goalkeeper’s arms.

All the pressure came from the visitors in the first five minutes and the Brewers needed to settle.

But they fashioned a chance in the sixth minute when Jack Armer sent a ball forward from the left and Jake Beesley flicked it into Fabio Tavares’ path for a shot which was straight at Liam Roberts in goal.