KEVIN Horlock began his tenure as MALDON & TIPTREE boss with a 2-1 victory at home to Essex rivals BRIGHTLINGSEA REGENT.

The former Ipswich Town midfielder was taking charge of his first competitive game, after being appointed in mid-May.

And he started with an important victory at Park Drive, on the opening day of the new Ryman League season.

Maldon’s Matt Lock put his side in front just before the half-hour mark, when his cross-shot took a deflection and ended up in the back of the net.

However, it proved only a short-lived advantage as Jake Turner equalised within three minutes, netting direct from a free-kick.

Maldon then had a golden chance to go back in front just before half-time.

Kieran Moulouis won a penalty after being fouled but, after dusting himself down to take it himself, he missed from the spot.

The winning goal came 20 minutes from time, courtesy of Adam Mills.

Man-of-the-match Kyle Hammond whipped in a perfect cross and Mills met it was a header that flew past Regent keeper Ollie Bowles.

“I was really proud of the lads,” said Horlock.

“They were hard to beat and showed quality when it mattered.”

Elsewhere, depleted HEYBRIDGE SWIFTS suffered disappointment after conceding a last-gasp winner in their 2-1 defeat at Thamesmead Town.

The all-important goal came from a free-kick in the last minute of the match.

Swifts had fallen behind early on but levelled just before half-time through Callum Leahy.

“It was a hard way to lose but one thing’s for sure – we will only grow from here,” said Swifts boss Jody Brown.

Meanwhile, Heybridge have confirmed the signings of former fans’ favourite Michael Toner, who will be eligible to play in Tuesday’s home match against Great Wakering Rovers.

Marvel Ekpiteta has also joined, from Chelmsford City.

WITHAM TOWN were also on their travels on the opening day of the season and drew 0-0 at Soham Town Rangers.

There are lots more Ryman League games on Tuesday night.

In addition to Swifts’ home encounter with Wakering, it’s Brightlingsea against VCD Athletic, Norwich United against Maldon and Witham against Bury Town.