By Paul Judd
AFC RUSHDEN & DIAMONDS 2
HANWELL TOWN 0
AFC Rushden & Diamonds made a winning start at their new home with a hard-fought victory against Hanwell.
The hosts took an early lead through a Nabil Shariff penalty but Hanwell were strong throughout, whipping in dangerous crosses to test the Diamonds defence and seeing Michael Malcolm crash one effort off the bar.
Diamonds pressed throughout though but had to wait until the second half to double the lead, with Shariff prodding home.
Hanwell remained a threat, missing two golden chances, while Diamonds themselves hit the bar thr...