Ebbsfleet United 2 Northwich Victoria 1

CHUKKI ERIBENNE ensured Ebbsfleet United began life under their new name with a win following a fiery encounter against Northwich Victoria at Stonebridge Road on Saturday.

Eribenne prodded home midway through the second half after a Stacy Long shot had been parried to give his side all three points.

Luke Moore had scored the first ever goal for Ebbsfleet after just two minutes but Vics equalised soon after half-time through Simon Rusk.

The Fleet's James Smith and Vics striker Kevin Tounson were sent off moments after Eribenne's goal following a flare-up on the touchline.

Liam Daish's men then had to play the final 10 minutes with nine men after new captain Gary MacDonald hobbled off.

Moore had given his side the perfect start latching onto Eribenn's through ball and slotting under Andrew Murphy.

The Fleet had rarely looked troubled but full-back Rusk levelled after neat play with Tounson.

The impressive Eribenne hit the post late on as the Fleet held on to start their season in the best possible fashion.

Ebbsfleet: Tynan, Hawkins, Smith, MacDonald, Ricketts (McPhee 36), Long, Barret, DeBolla, Purcell (Opinel 54), Moore (Nade 73), Eribenne.
Subs not used: Mott, Coleman.
Attendance: 1,045.

* Keep up to date with all the news from Stonebridge Road every week in the Gravesend Messenger.