Altrincham

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Kenilworth Road

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Luton 2-1 Altrincham

Luton Town striker Matthew Barnes-Homer scored a late goal to help fire his side to an opening day victory over Altrincham at Kenilworth Road.

The hosts started brightly and enjoyed their fair share of possession but they were unable to but the ball to good use.

The Hatters created their first real goalscoring chance in the 20th minute but Andrew Drury's volley was saved by Alty goalkeeper Stuart Coburn.

And two minutes later they got the breakthrough they were looking for when debutant Zdenek Kroca headed home from close range.

Barnes-Homer almost got lucky with his cross-cum-shot in the 40th minute but Shaun Densmore was on hand to clear the ball off the line.

Luton started the second period strongly and came agonisingly close to doubling their advantage in the 57th minute when Kevin Gallen's header flew inches wide of the target.

However, it was Altrincham who found the back of the net in the 70th minute when Damien Reeves stole in at the back post to level the scores.

The Robins were forced onto the back foot after that as the Hatters pressed forward in a bid to reclaim the lead.

It looked as if the Robins were on course to claim a share of the spoils but Barnes-Homer popped up in the 88th minute with an effort from outside the area which flew into the top-right corner of goal.

Luton bookings: Barnes-Homer.

Altrincham bookings: Reeves, Holmes.

Ref: Marvin Thompson (Middlesex).

Att: 6,665.