Beth Hepple’s opener for the home side was cancelled out by Bianca Baptiste, before Nicki Gears restored Durham’s advantage during a flurry of goals just before half-time.
Wendy Martin subsequently saw her effort disallowed for off-side and Durham were able to maintain their lead for the rest of the game.
Following their promotion from the FA Women’s Premier League South last season, Karen Hills’ team started rapidly. Helen Alderson guided Baptiste’s corner inches away from Wendy Martin flying in at the far-post. Josie Green then lobbed towards Coral-Jade Haines, she sent Sarah Wiltshire away who fired wide of the right post.