Jones double gets new boss Townsend off to a winning start at Southam

Last season, Saints ran out 3-0 winners when the two teams met at Banbury Road but, this time around, Stony Stratford opened the scoring after 35 minutes with a free-kick from the edge of the box that went in off the crossbar.

Saints drew level when new captain Jones went on a great run into the danger area and slotted home low into the corner.

The sides went in at half-time all square, but a second goal for Jones on the hour, this time from close range, won the match for Saints.

Townsend was understandably pleased with the victory, saying: “The team worked hard and got the result they deserved.”

Last night, Saints were away to Woodford United, managed by former Leamington defender Adam Knight and tomorrow visit Stourport Swifts, before hosting Northampton Spencer on Thursday (7.30pm).

Meanwhile, the fixtures have been released for the opening month of the Midland Football League Division One campaign, with Southam opening up at home to Hinckley on August 2.

It is one of eight games in the opening month for Townsend’s side, which includes a home clash with Racing Club Warwick on August 16.

Racers, who lost their opening pre-season friendly 8-0 to Coleshill on Tuesday night, start against Lichfield City.

Four goals in each half, including a Shane Benjamin hat-trick condemned Racing Club to defeat against Coleshill, who were some way ahead of their hosts in their pre-season preparations.

Michael Hayden’s side will be looking to bounce back tomorrow when they entertain Midland League Division Two outfit Coventry United (3pm).