MANAGER Steve Cuss believes last season’s learning curve has played its part in Wimborne Town’s bright start to 2014-15.

Having kicked off with a creditable point at Southern South & West title favourites Merthyr Town, injury-hit Magpies pouched all three with a 2-1 win at newly-promoted Larkhall Athletic last night.

Matt Kemble put Wimborne in front from the penalty spot before 17-year-old back-up keeper Luke Horton saved a spot kick at the other end.

Sam Griffin doubled the lead before Luke Bryan grabbed a late consolation for Larkhall.

And although Cuss admitted he had felt a little trepidation over Magpies’ tough start, he argued that the know-how picked up over the past 12 months had added greater resolve to his side.

Cuss told the Daily Echo: “I thought we were given a raw deal when the fixtures came out so I was really delighted to get four points from two tough games.

“It is well-publicised that we are working with smaller squad this season but that can help things to gel quite quickly.

“The fact everyone in the team has Southern League experience has helped as well.”

Wimborne host Wantage Town at Cuthbury on Saturday (3pm).

Striker Mark Gamble (ankle) remains sidelined but there will be fitness tests for defender Adam Costello and keeper Jason Harvell.

Magpies: (from) Horton, Arnold, Maybury, Biles, Oliver, Blake, Griffin, Wilson, Stokoe, Kemble, Davidson, Webb, Brimson, Roast, Costello, Powell, Harvell.