STEVEN Tames scored the only goal to settle a first league encounter between the teams.

It also preserves Witton’s unbeaten start to a new season.

The front man was alert in the sixth minute when running onto a long ball down Albion’s right before coolly lobbing the ball over former Northwich Victoria goalkeeper Mason Springthorpe.

As they had done against Buxton, Carl Macauley’s men protected their advantage – and they had rather longer to do so after Will Jones’ late winner in midweek.

“We weren’t at our best,” said the Witton boss afterwards.

“They never troubled us though, and so we have to be happy to collect another three points at the same time as keeping a clean sheet.”

Gurjit Singh saw his shot blocked as Sutton Coldfield attempted to respond quickly, although the home team continued to pose a threat.

They would have doubled their lead had Springthorpe not produced a fine one-handed save to thwart James Foley after Tames had combined with Prince Haywood in the build-up.

On the half-hour, David Howarth was just unable to turn sharply enough when he had a glimpse of goal for the Royals.

Haywood’s effort struck an upright, while Singh turned and shot in the same movement only to see his shot flash narrowly wide.

Rob Hopley scooped high after creating a chance for himself, while Springthorpe was again alert to push away Michael Wilson’s shot after Matty Devine’s corner reached him at the far post.

Witton goalkeeper Calvin Hare produced a fine block to deny Brian Smikle in the second period, although Sutton failed to make the most of a succession of corners.

Their best moment came when Devine stuck a boot in the way of a low drive.

Albion’s final attempt saw defender Nick Ryan head over from another Devine set-piece.

Witton | Hare (GK), Gardner, Devine, Wilson, Brown, Ryan, Haywood, Foley (Evans 83), Hopley (Jones 63), Tames, Hedley (Williams 70) Subs not used Newby, Hinchliffe Goal Tames 6

Sutton Coldfield | Springthorpe (GK), Beresford, Martin, Birch, Barnes, Kelly, Flint (Zazi 63), Smikle, Howarth, McMillan (Gabbidon 79), Singh (Wright 74) Subs not used none Booked Martin, Beresford (both fouls)

Referee Kristian Silcock

Attendance 298

Match report by Phil Chadwick