Keyworth United 1-3 ECFC

In a nervous looking performance in which Eastwood always looked in control but much to often their final ball and decision making in the final third let them down.

Again Eastwood had to make changes to their defence with the suspended Greg Conn and injured Kane Mathews absent. Captain Aaron Short returned to partner debutant Matt Peberday in the centre of defence with Billy Brooks moving to right back, Jamie Thomas also switched to left back.

Eastwood dominated the early stages of the game enjoying large amounts of possession but didn't really trouble the home keeper in the first 20 minutes while Eastwood restricted Keyworth to a couple of long range efforts which keeper Jack Walker dealt with comfortably.

As the half wore on Eastwood's patience with possession began to pay dividends as they began to create a couple of decent half chances both through Paddy Webb with the young striker getting clear down the left side but both his strikes on goal going narrowly wide. Eastwood also had a good claim for a penalty when they thought Jamie Thomas was fouled after a typical positive run into the penalty area.

Half-Time 0-0

With the second half going in much the same vain as the first Eastwood were delighted to take the lead on the hour. Billy Brooks burst down the right flank and fine cross was nodded home from 8 yards by Rory Smith. Keyworth equalised 5 minutes later when Whyman's powerful free kick from distance deceived Walker with its movement to equalise for the home side.

With the home side now applying pressure looking for the victory Eastwood to their credit dug in and again took the lead on 79 minutes. After good work by substitute James Hallam who played in Kyle McDermott who was fouled after his burst inside the area. Chay Betteridge made no mistake from the resulting spot kick with a well taken penalty. Eastwood again were forced into changes to their back four for the final 10 minutes of the game loosing Aaron Short due to injury with Kelvin Mushambi replacing the Eastwood skipper. Eastwood sealed the victory on 87 minutes with another penalty as the home full back was adjudged to of handled a James Hallam cross. Chay Betteridge again kept his cool converting the spot kick.

Full-Time 1-3