Swinnerton puts the seal on impressive start for Southam

Saints welcomed back striker David Wilson, who missed the end of last season through injury, and former players Neil Stacey and Josh Cole.

They introduced Aaron Addison from Romulus in the heart of the defence alongside Charlie Neale, but were missing another new signing Tom Leaver, who played for Stratford in the first half of last season.

Town came into the match on the back of a 2-1 victory against a Kidderminster XI and, with a number of former Leamington players in their squad, are expected to challenge for honours this season.

But it was Saints who had the better of the first half, almost opening the scoring in the eighth minute when good work by Stacey and John Blunsom set up Connor Brown.

Danny Bartles, playing wide on the right, had a good effort in the 32nd minute while Stacey shot wide shortly after. An excellent long ball from Blunsom sent Bartles away but his powerful shot was turned for a corner by Richard Morris.

Saints got the breakthrough in the 43rd minute when a good through ball from Mark Anderson found Brown, who was brought down from behind for a clear penalty, coolly converted by Jack Taylor

Saints changed their side around in the second half, with Stacey taking over in goal from Jim Stott and Ross Jackson donning the captain’s armband.

They doubled the lead when Luke Swinnerton volleyed past Morris.

Stratford should have got a goal back in the 78th minute when a mistake by Dan Humphriss presented them with an open goal, but the chance was missed.

They did get a consolation five minutes from the end when converting a low cross from the right, the only time the Saints defence had been exposed in the match.

Manager Luke Fogarty was pleased with the outcome, saying: “We had a few players missing and decided to change the side about in the second half to give everyone a workout.

“Josh Cole teamed up well with Mark Anderson in midfield and young Sam Wimbush also made a good impression.”

Saints continue their build-up to the season with visits to Stockton tonight and Kenilworth Town on Tuesday (both kick-off at 7pm). They then play host to Southern League Woodford United in their annual Friendship Cup tie on Thursday (7.30pm).

Saints will start their Athium Midland Combination campaign on August 13 at Continental Star. Their only other scheduled league fixture in the month is at home to Bloxwich United AFC on August 27.