Hendon began their 52nd consecutive season in the top flight of the Ryman League in perfect style as they beat Bury Town 2-0 at Earlsmead.

There were three debutants in the starting line-up for the Greens, striker Kezie Ibe, midfielder Sam Murphy and young goalkeeper George Legg, the latter having signed on loan from Reading 24 hours before the game. A fourth debutant, Andre Da Costa, came on as a substitute.

Bury fielded a young side, but still had experienced keeper Marcus Garnham between the sticks.

On a warm afternoon, the game started quietly as both sides sized their opponents up, but the Greens slowly took control of the game, and after about 10 minutes Leon Smith had a shot well saved by Garnham after he had found his way into the box.

The opening goal came in the 19th minute when Smith was sent clear of the defence by a ball out of midfield, and he calmly slipped the ball past Garnham into the net to show that he hasn't lost his scoring touch from last season.

Just a few minutes later the lead was doubled, but this time Smith turned provider. He was once again sent clear of the defence, but to the right of the goal. He spotted Ibe unmarked in the box, slipped the ball to his fellow forward, and Ibe had no hesitation in slamming it home for a debut goal.

Bury looked like a side short of ideas and grew frustrated, with a couple of unnecessary challenges coming towards the end of the half.

The second half was a quiet affair, although Bury did add some much needed experience after an hour by introducing John Kennedy to the field.

Chances were at a premium at either end, with Legg being well protected by the experienced Hendon back line, whilst Garnham showed his experience to ensure that his goal wasn't breached again.

The Greens were certainly happy to see the game out and ensure the three points were secured, along with the clean sheet, and that is what they were able to do with a degree of comfort.

Manager Gary McCann was more than satisfied after the game and said "I am much happier after today's 2-0 win, than I was after our 4-0 opening day win at Thamesmead last season.

"Last season, I felt that something wasn't quite right, whereas today we looked secure, comfortable and it was a very professional performance."