Gianfranco Zola was understandably pleased after watching his side kick off the 2009/10 season with a 'perfect' 2-0 win away at newly-promoted Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Mark Noble opened the scoring in the 22nd minute with a delightful curling shot into the top corner before captain Matthew Upson made sure of the points 24 minutes into the second half. After overcoming the mystery and suspense that the first day of the season always holds, Zola was looking forward to building on a solid start.
"It was a very professional win," Zola said. "It was a good game for us. We conceded some chances to them but, on the other hand, we created so many opportunities to score. The team looked in control of the game but when you're winning 1-0, you fear that something could happen but, fortunately, the team was focused and we kept our composure, when they were coming at us.
"I'm pleased, it's been a good performance. It was the perfect way to start the season.
Upson met Noble's corner to power a header past Wayne Hennessey for his second goal in a claret and blue shirt. As well as marshalling the defence superbly, Zola was delighted to see his skipper playing his part at the other end.
"I am pleased for Matthew's performance and his goal. It's quite funny because we were talking during the week and he said to me: 'I would like to score more goals this year.' Now, he has just said to me: 'We have to talk more often.' I told him: 'Any time!"
Despite being delighted to see the England defender get on the scoresheet, Zola added that it emphasised how important it is that the goals come from all sections of the team this season.
"We can produce good football this year but we just need to make sure that the goals come from players other than Carlton Cole. Today has been good. Two goals - one from a defender and one from midfield.
"I'm looking forward to seeing more goals in the future from other midfielders. That's a part of the game upon which we need to improve."
The only slight blot on a near perfect afternoon for the east Londoners was an injury to Herita Ilunga, who was forced from the field after a nasty clash of heads. Zola revealed that, thankfully, the prognosis is not too bad.
"We have to assess Herita Ilunga - he took a knock on the jaw but I don't think that it's going to be too bad," said Zola, who can now look forward to the visit of local rivals Tottenham Hotspur next Sunday with real optimism.