After a summer of uncertainty Willenhall kicked off their Unibond League campaign on a low note against a strong Belper outfit.

For the first 20 minutes the Reds held their own, as only a Mario Campagna effort troubled keeper Steve Jackson.

On 27 minutes a cross from Willenhall’s Rory Curtis saw Jamal Pinnock mis-hit a shot to Paul Warren, who had a powerful shot deflected wide.

But Willenhall’s resistance was finally broken on 31 minutes. A low ball into the area was deflected beyond Jackson’s reach by team-mate Mickey Eagles.

Belper went close to doubling their lead, when goalkeeper Jackson blocked Anthony Wilson before producing a smart save to deny Lee Stevenson.

On the stroke of half-time Belper doubled their advantage. A cross from the right was headed back across the face of the goal by Simon Barraclough, where an unmarked Stevenson headed in from close range.

The second-half started much like the first ended, as Belper pressed forward with Lewis Trimmer shooting just wide.

Willenhall came close on 53 minutes. A low ball into the area from Ed Ryan, saw Eagles unable to get a foot to it at the back post.

Belper added a third on 57 minutes when Wilson curled in a shot from 10 yards.

Willenhall substitute Sam Wills almost reduced the deficit, when his 20-yard effort was saved by Leigh Walker.