London Lions returned to Rowley Lane for the first time in four years and added to the euphoria with a 4-1 win over Sawbridgeworth Town in the Herts Charity Shield.
In what has been a very good pre-season to date, Lions were relishing there first competitive game of the new season. Competition is going to be fierce this season and that was highlighted early on with no less than eight regular first team players unable to make the selected 14.
Lions dominated the first 15 minutes, however it was the visitors that took the lead slightly against the run of play.
The goal only served to spurn Lions on and Josh Kennet drew the sides level with a fabulous individual effort.
Aron Barnes then put the home side in front just before the break, which was no less than the Lions deserved.
The second half saw Sawbridgeworth continue to be competitive but Lions stepped up a gear and in the final 30 minutes put the game to bed. Sam Sloma added his name to the score sheet with a sublime finish before Barnes added his second of the game and Lions fourth.
The win puts Lions in the quarter-final with a match at home against either Oxhey Jets or St Margaretsbury.
Lions will play a friendly against Waltham Abbey next weekend before facing Clapton in their first-ever FA Cup tie the following week.