NEWLY-PROMOTED AFC Solihull claimed a 3-1 victory against 10-man Earlswood Town in the opening game of the Midland Football League Division Two season.
A brace from James Reid either side of an Owen Williams strike put Solihull in command as Alessandro Pierpoint saw red for the Earls before Phillip Mann netted a consolation for the hosts at The Pavilions.
Solihull dominated proceedings from the off and took the lead on 26 minutes when Reid headed a high ball past Earslwood goalkeeper Alexey Dallaway.
And Williams then struck against his former club to double Solihull’s lead with a tap in from close range two minutes before half time.
Solihull sealed the points on 67 minutes when Reid grabbed his second of the game from the penalty spot after Mann fouled Cherno Sey in the box.
The Earls finished the game with 10-men after Pierpoint received a second yellow card before Mann powerfully headed in Harry Street’s corner to score a consolation goal for the home side.
Solihull entertain Cadbury Athletic at Rumbush Lane while Earlswood host Northfield Town at The Pavilions with both games to kick-off at 3pm on Saturday, August 10.
