GARETH Davies admitted his first competitive match in charge of Fairford Town was not good for his health.

The Cinder Lane side bagged all three points in their opener, courtesy of a 5-4 win over Shortwood United, despite threatening to surrender a healthy lead in the closing moments.

Town appeared to be cruising to victory in the first match of former Fairford player Davies’ reign until, two goals in the final ten minutes started the nerves jangling.

Former Malmesbury Vics boss Davies said: “It was a good result, but not necessarily the best game for my heart.

“At 5-2, I thought we were cruising, but we gave away a penalty and then a very sloppy goal in the last few moments.

“To be fair though, I thought we were worth it.

“There are a few things we have got to work on and conceding four goals is never a good thing.’’ Goals have been a common feature when these two sides meet – it was 4-4 at the Gloucestershire side last season – and five had gone in before the half-time whistle on Saturday.

Winger Steve Hall opened the scoring from Davies’ men after being set up by Josh Skeates and Alex Rudd.

Shortwood were back on terms through Adam Philip before Fairford went in front again when as debutant Ryan Welland headed home from a Luke Cordery cross.

Kenna N’Goma restored parity once again but it was another of Fairford’s new boys, Cordery, who got his side back in front before the break.

Alex Rudd put daylight between the sides in the second half and when Skeates scored, the game appeared over.

Craig Mills fired home from the penalty spot late on though and there was still time for Marley Thomas to leave the result in doubt until the final whistle.

Davies added: “The three lads from midfield all chipped in with goals and we also had two goals from two of our new players.

“Overall, we’re over the moon with the result.’’