These two sides have returned to the Championship after contrasting seasons in different divisions, but both are fancied to perform strongly this term.
Blues romped out of League One with a record 111 points while the Tractor Boys came unstuck in their Premier League campaign as they managed only four wins on their way to relegation.
Birmingham's ambitious American owners do not want to hang around in the second tier judging by some of their exciting summer acquisitions, of whom four started here.
The Knighthead Group, led by Tom Wagner, have big plans - although minority investor Tom Brady could not be here as the NFL megastar was back in New England awaiting the unveiling of his own statue at the Patriots' Gillette Stadium.
Davies' team may be 'newcomers', but they did not look out of place at all. They played with confidence, aggression and a clearly defined style as they showed why they have not lost a home league game since April 2024.
They came out on top in all the key metrics except one, with Hirst's spot-kick the only shot on target the visitors managed all game.
"Tonight was about the performance and how to handle the occasion," said Davies. "I thought we were the better team, we dominated the match and deserved to win.
"There was a lot to like. We've retained our identity, not just stylistically, but the spirit and the fight we had last season."
Adam Lanigan
