Bradford Park Avenue 2, Gateshead 0: After waiting what seemed like an eternity for their first victory in the UniBond Premier Division last year Avenue fans were treated to a win on the opening day this time round.

Bradford boss Trevor Storton may not have been satisfied with the performance of his side but he welcomed the flying start that came with it.

"We didn't play well at all," admitted the manager. "But sometimes it is all about three points at this stage of the season.

"It wasn't a convincing win but we are off the mark and that is something we can build on.

"Last year we went 13 games before our first win, we'll take this one."

The conditions at Horsfall Stadium made it difficult for both sides but Gateshead had their chances and will feel hard-done-by.

However, sterling defensive work and the knack of scoring goals Avenue developed during their first season in the top flight of regional football last season saw them through.

"They say it's the sign of a good side when you can win even though you haven't played well but I would prefer my side to be on top of their game right from the off," added Storton.

"We played well in most of our pre-season matches so I expected a bit better from our lads in this one.

"But the pitch was bone dry and it was bouncy, that made it hard for both sides. We just got the rub of the green."

The boss is obviously playing down the significance of a victory on the first day of the season because he is mindful that the players can become over confident and with another important league fixture at Hyde United tonight he is keen to keep them in check.

Despite being under the cosh from a vibrant Gateshead side Avenue took the lead midway through the first half. It was a move started by former Bantam Graham Mitchell.

The defender, a summer signing from relegated Nationwide Division Three side Halifax Town, launched a long clearance up field to Andy Quinn. His through ball found Hayward and the ex-Rotherham striker needed no other assistance as he raced through to slide a shot from inside the area past visitors' keeper Dave Campbell after bustling through a last-ditch challenge.

Hayward was instrumental in the goal that clinched the victory four minutes from time. He emulated Mark Hughes at his best by collecting a through ball and making it his before a neat lay off to Phil Lindley.

The youngster had just been introduced as a late substitute but he was composed and made a few yards before applying the final touch to leave Campbell grasping thin air.

"Matt Daly will be added to the squad for tonight's game because he only missed Saturday because of a ban hanging over from last season. I know we won the first game but I can't say we'll be unchanged," said Storton.