Tylor Golden’s spectacular debut goal was described as “fit to win any game” by manager Phil Parkinson as Altrincham’s opening National League fixture produced drama, controversy and a welcome three points at The J.Davidson Stadium.

Alty’s 2024/25 campaign was only 12 minutes old when a late challenge by Eddy Jones sparked a furious reaction, with Woking skipper Dale Gorman appearing to grab the Robins left-back by the scruff of the neck.

When order was finally restored, Alty were reduced to 10 men as referee James Oldham showed Jones a red card, while Gorman escaped with a yellow.

Despite their numerical disadvantage, the Robins were good value for a 1-0 win that was secured in stunning fashion by debutant full-back Golden in the 27th minute, as he took aim from 25 yards and curled an unstoppable shot into the top far corner of the Woking net.

Woking themselves were down to 10 men when Gorman was shown a second yellow early in the second half, and there was little sympathy from Alty boss Parkinson afterwards, as he chose his words carefully but made it clear he was unhappy with the midfielder’s role in Jones’ dismissal.

“Eddy gave the referee a decision to make, but my grievance was with the reaction, which I felt led to it being a red card,” he said. “I don’t want to name the player I’m talking about, but he aggravated the situation with the way he went at Eddy and gripped him by the throat.

“We were all told in no uncertain terms before the season started that conduct like that was not acceptable or allowed, so it was frustrating to see he only got a yellow card for that.

“But it gave Tylor the chance to go on as substitute and show what he is about, and his goal was fit to win any game. I thought the players were immense, showing grit, desire, determination and a real resolve to get over the line.

“There was a relentless streak about us that we are going to have to show when things go against us.”