United eked out their first victory of 2001, but it was a far from convincing showing. Playing with the strong wind at their backs, United dominated the early stages, with Roni Joe in particular giving the visiting defenders a torrid time. After a few minutes it was his run and cross that led to Ducket ballooning over from close range.

Shortly afterwards, Clifford had a clear header from a Bailey cross, but it sailed just high and wide. United then began to lose their way somewhat, and the visitors even managed to get the ball in the net, but it was disallowed for offside.

The tide soon turned back again though, thanks to another bit of Joe magic. Making a similar run to that which had set up the Ducket chance, he shot from a narrow angle and forced a good save. From the resulting corner, Clifford headed home Gallagher's cross from the edge of the six yard box.

Playing into the wind for the second half, it was important that United gave themselves a cushion. However, a passage of woeful play from both sides ensued, with neither looking likely to score.

As the half wore on, United began to re-assert control. Maynard should have made it two, but shot weekly at the keeper when clean through. Ollie Stanbridge went close with a far post header from Ducket's teasing cross, and Joe continued to torment the defence, who resorted to tugging his shirt - an offence which generally went unpunished.

As the rain lashed down in the closing stages, United began to look nervous, and the visitors missed a golden chance to equalise when a free header hit the bar and went over.

At the other end yet another Joe run seemed certain to result in the second goal, but he shot wildly over when a simple pass would have left Maynard with an open goal.

The Ducks were almost made to pay, as Ducket cleared the ball off the Aylesbury line in an injury time scramble.