Ossett Town 0

Northwich Victoria 4

IAIN Howard netted on his return, but insists Northwich Victoria will remain grounded after starting the new season with a comfortable win at Ossett Town.

The winger, who joined Warrington Town during pre-season only to have a change of heart, added to goals from Abou Sanogo and Richie Bennett before substitute Josh Amis scored late on.

And Howard says his side will look to continue a solid start to the in Division One North when New Mills visit Wincham Park tonight, Wednesday.

"We will keep our feet on the ground, and look at the next game to stay focused on taking three points again," he said.

"Any win on the opening day is good, but nothing is decided in August."

Sanogo powered a header past a despairing Darol Lucas on the line after 27 minutes to put Vics ahead, debutant Alex Byrne providing the assist.

Vics doubled their lead on 53 minutes when Howard released another newcomer, Jordan Williams, and he crossed low for Bennett to finish from close range.

Howard made it three with a sweetly-struck effort, intercepting a stray pass before sending a shot across Ossett's goalkeeper on the diagonal.

Amis sealed the points late on following a counter-attack, cushioning Sanogo’s pass into his path before applying a finishing touch.

“It was a great way to start the campaign,” said manager Jim Gannon.

“Any away win is to be enjoyed, and what made it more pleasing was the nature and quality of the goals.

“They were all well-taken, but more pleasing was that the opportunities were well-crafted too.”

Vics: Griffiths (GK), Byrne, Ali, Krou, Clarke, Roddy, Sanogo, Cook, Bennett (Amis 60), Howard (Woolfe 82), Williams (Ball 69). Subs not used: Smith, Smart. Attendance: 89.