I MISSED Worcester's first match due to a family wedding but short of a punch-up at the reception or the bride being stood up by the groom I doubt if it ever had any chance of comparing to City's thrilling 3-3 draw against Weymouth.

I'm sure John Barton will be reaching for the Grecian 2000 before too long if his Worcester players continue to produce performances like that, but the plus point from the match must be the resilience and fighting qualities displayed by his team.

City rescued a point they probably didn't deserve but teams make their own luck and perhaps Barton's side have added that priceless quality to their locker.

Mark Owen's opening day hat-trick is further good news for the club because strikers thrive on confidence and his goals will be crucial to Worcester's success this season.

It took him six matches to get off the mark last season but this time round he's off to a flyer -- what Barton needs now is more goals from some of his other players.

How successful City are going to be is the perennial question and I know Barton is trying not to raise expectations.

But like all St George's Lane supporters I'm hoping they can put together enough points to be serious challengers -- I want to be reporting matches in the Nationwide Conference next season.

The City boss has brought in five players over the summer, strengthening the squad in all areas of the park.

At the back Matt Gardiner combines defensive qualities with composure on the ball, while Allan Davies at either full-back or wing-back has pace and gives an attacking option down the right.

The loss of winger Mike Wyatt is I'm sure a blow to Barton but the skill, touch and versatility of Darren Middleton in forward positions can only be an asset to the side.

Phil Stant provides a wealth of experience and muscle up front, while the combative Jon Holloway adds snap to the midfield.

It's going to be a long hard season and injuries, form and dodgy refereeing decisions are all going to play their part, but hopefully Barton has enough resources and has that all important bit of luck to ride the storms ahead.

If he can pull it off, promotion would be fantastic for the club, supporters and the city as a whole and I'm sure I'm not alone in wishing Barton and his side all the best over the next 10 months.