Gardner’s shot from open play in the first stanza was the only goal in a hard- fought game, FC media manager Greg Bartlett said.

“Tamworth FC created plenty of chances but were unable to kill the game off,”  Bartlett said.

“That gave Demon Knights hope as they pushed for an equaliser right to the full-time whistle.”

Best for FC were defender Steve Marshall and goalscorer Matt Gardner, who didn’t stop all game.

“This win sets up an interesting clash against fellow first-round winners Gunnedah United this week at Johnson Field,” Bartlett said.

Gunnedah United beat South Armidale 5-3 in Gunnedah last Saturday to also open their new season on a positive note.

Tamworth FC’s second grade side wasn’t as lucky as its first grade team, losing 1-nil to Demon Knights.

Like their first grade counterparts, they created plenty of chances, Bartlett said.

“We weren’t able to finish those chances off,” he said.

“Demon Knights scored midway through the first half from a free kick outside the 18-yard box which FC defended poorly. 

“From that point, FC chased hard for the equaliser but were unable to put any of the many chances they created in the back of the net.

“Credit to Demon Knights who were able to hang in after all the sustained pressure from FC.”

Best for FC were Ben Finn, Adam Greentree and Adam Schultz.

In other PL first grade games, Joeys FC beat Namoi United 6-1 and North Armidale accounted for Moree FC 4-2 as they prepare for a big local derby against South Armidale.

Inverell’s Joeys FC have their first home game against an East Armidale side that beat North Companions 1-nil in Tamworth and North Companions are at home aganst Namoi United.