LAST Friday night's opening fixture between Forest Green and Stockport was a thoroughly enjoyable occasion.

Football first. A brave decision by manager Hockaday saw James Bittner left out and Matt Bulman included.

Goalkeeper Bittner had been outstanding last season and must feel unlucky. Bulman, however, let nobody down - nor did the Rovers' team.

In the first half they played fine football - passing well, keeping possession and entertaining us much more than at anytime last season.

Reece Styche scored with a fine header from Rowe's free- kick. Can anyone explain his goal celebration? He ran towards the TV cameras blowing an imaginary pipe and patting his stomach.

In the second half Rovers were less commanding and were hampered by injuries to defenders Todd and Imudia.

Todd's occurred first and to replace him Imudia moved to centre half and Forbes left back. Henry ultimately replaced Imudia.

These substitutions upset the home side's rhythm and Stockport dominated the closing stages, but could score only once.

Of the Forest Green Rovers newcomers Todd and Rowe were impressive and so was Imudia when going forward.

Griffin used wisdom rather than speed, but played a full part in a subtly inter-changing front three. Norwood had, by his own admission, a poor game. He has speed and physique on his side, but was far too casual in possession. Graham looked a worthy utility defender.

I made Allen man of the match. He was surprisingly strong and swift and just shaded Styche.

Luton manager Brabin, acting as a summariser for TV, made no secret of his admiration of Reece and I am not surprised he has made a bid for him. There are rumours that Cheltenham are also interested.

This will be a problem for manager and chairman - should they sell - if so when and for how much.

I think it is inevitable Reece will ultimately move, but I hope not yet. When he does I hope the fee will be substantial with appropriate 'add ons'.

During the week I broadcast on Stroud FM a programme (The Locker Room) superbly organised by Richard Joyce (Joycie).

The programme contained an interview with Reece. It was immediately obvious that he was upset by some unflattering comments about him on the Fans' Forum.

Such forums are splendid if they are properly used. I am not sure FGR's is. Some comments are mature and thoughtful, but some waspish or worse.

There has been criticism of chairman Dale for (a) appearing on the team photograph and (b) being casually dressed.

I was always on the GCCC photo when I was chairman and would have been offended to have been ignored.

Dale is quite rightly there with the team. As for dress, for him to be suited and booted would have been hypocrisy. That is something our chairman cannot be accused of.

What you see of Dale is what you get. I do not always agree with him especially over the food and drink on offer, but boy - am I glad he is here.

There has also been criticism of the new flag poles.

Why? Ecotricity is not just considerable financial force behind the club - it is a major local employer.

The stadium has never looked better, and we have Ecotricity to thank for that, and this I happily do. Keep going Dale, but please get the food right.

Before the kick-off Mrs Light and I visited The Green Man (a lager before kick off is becoming a habit). There we were entertained by the travelling Stockport fans who sang about their team, ground and history with joy, enthusiasm and pride.

Surely that is something we should all feel about our club. I was quite moved listening. It was a genuine moment that transcended individual club loyalty - a true football moment.

We earned a good point at Luton on Tuesday and Alfreton and Braintree are should-win matches. They will be the real test for our new team and both games should be won. Eight points from four matches will surely satisfy all.