‘That was a proper away performance’ – Baffins boss Wilkinson hails opening Wessex Premier victory at Alresford

Tyler Moret (middle) was on target as Baffins won their opening Wessex League game 3-0 at Alresford. Picture: Sarah Standing

Wilkinson was hugely disappointed by Baffins’ midweek FA Cup exit against AFC Stoneham and demanded a response.

He couldn't have wished for more with three points and a clean sheet to go with it.

'We were a lot better and produced a proper away performance,' said the boss.

'All the players to a man were on their game, individually and collectively as a unit.

'Defensively we were very solid and going forward we looked a threat.

'We shot out of the blocks, scored two early goals and that gave us something to hold onto.

'It was a good day all round.'

Dale Mason should have done better in the opening minutes. Home goalkeeper Aaron Bufton could only parry a James Cowan free-kick but Mason rifled the rebound wide.

Baffins took the lead after 12 minutes after Brandon Miller broke down the left and delivered an inch perfect cross for Tyler Moret to head home.

Rovers extended their lead on 33 minutes with Moret again involved.

Moret rose at the far post to head Mason's corner back across goal for Josh Warren to head in.

Baffins goalkeeper Charlie Searle had largely been a spectator but just before the break he had to parry a shot away with Zak Sharp completing the clearance.

The visitors went close at the start of the second half as Tommy Scutt saw his effort tipped onto the crossbar.

They also felt they should have had a penalty for a 'clear' handball from a Mason corner.

Cowan sealed the three points for Baffins in the final minute, converting a penalty after sub Billy Connor had been brought down.

'In the second half we worked hard, maintained our shape and stood up to the pressure from our opponents.

'We are a young team and still learning.

'It is important that we back this win up and don't let it go to waste.'

Baffins Milton Rovers: Searle; Williamson, Miller, Sharp, Warren, Kirby, Scutt, Cowan, Moret, Dart, Mason. Subs: Connor, Osborne, Burgess, Emeney, Blankson.