CONNOR Collins got his Bromsgrove Sporting career off to the perfect start as his second half strike proved to be the winner at Atherstone Town on Saturday.
The former Fairfield Villa striker was snapped up from Halesowen Town following the Rouslers’ disastrous 5-1 defeat to title rivals Leicester Road last week.
And Collins made an immediate impact as his 73rd minute goal helped Bromsgrove secure all three points at Sheepy Road.
Goalkeeper Chris Jay also gave the club a boost following his move from Tividale, but it was fellow debutant Collins who was in the thick of the action. His second minute shot was blocked after a good interchange with Like Dugmore.
Collins was also combining well with Liam Spink and they set up Josh McKenzie but the striker fired over.
After having the better of the play, the visitors finally took a deserved lead on the 35th minute. Sam Wills hit a free-kick to the far post that Craig Jones powered home from just a few yards out.
Sporting then dominated the remainder of the half, but they failed to capitalise on their advantage as both Dugmore and Collins came close.
The half-time interval seemed to come at the right time for Atherstone as they came out more fired up and quickly tested Jay with a low drive from Michael Bloore.
However, Sporting were still edging this match and with The Adders a little exposed at the back, Simon Fitter sent one of his long-range passes up-field to Collins who dummied centre-back Harrison White, then rounded keeper Phil Smith before slotting home to open his account with his new club.
This gave the Rouslers a 2-0 lead with 17 minutes left, but the home side plugged away and got one back. Gregg Webb hit a cross from the right to the near post that substitute Ball netted.
That though was the last threat from The Adders as Bromsgrove had further chances to put the game to bed, but Collins hit another shot over the bar and youngsters Ethan Hanks had his effort cleared off the line.
