An encouraging start to their league campaign for Alton's youngsters on Thursday evening.

Having to contend with grass so long that it would have had our grass cutting team of Frank, Roger & Nigel running for cover and a reluctance to switch on the lights caught out Alton in the tenth minute when an opening appeared at the edge of the box and the home striker's shot vanished through the gloom into the net.

A couple of well taken in-swinging corners caused Alton some trouble but they managed to clear their lines before Marcus Moore sent through a slide rule pass to allow Elliot Tricker to equalise with style.

Alas those in-swinging corners continued to cause a problem and from just such a one Kintbury took the lead with a powerful header.

Alton regrouped and pressed forward with Scott Browne linking well with his forwards and the holding midfield pair of Ollie Copplestone and George Woodger giving nothing away. Nick Sharp and Elliot Tricker both went close but half time found the visitors trailing 2 - 1

The second half saw Alton's Mike Turner & Ryan Bunney at the centre of defence restrict Kintbury to few glimpses of goal while Jay McQuitty and Scott Browne made sure the wingers failed to get their crosses in as Alton took control of the game.

Switching to a more attacking formation with the introduction of Mo Nyamunga and Robbie Clayton on the hour saw Jamie Kinch in a more advanced position to rifle home a fine equaliser with a low shot on the angle on 80 minutes.

Alton tails were up and as they looked for the winner with Tricker striking the bar and Robbie Clayton having a volley blocked for a corner. With 7 minutes remaining Alton got their reward when Tricker struck a superb winner after breaking through the centre and releasing a powerful shot into the corner of the net.

Alton Town Youth entertain Oxford United in the FA Youth Cup at home this Monday (7th) at 7.30pm

Alton Town Youth: M Searle.: J McQuitty, Ryan Bunney, Mike Turner, Scott Browne: Marcus Moore (Mo Nyamunga), George Woodger (Robbie Clayton), Ollie Copplestone, Nick Sharp: Jamie Kinch (Jake Bishop), Elliot Tricker.