Playing against the wind, the Rams had a better first half than the second 45 minutes and went ahead after ten minutes. Archie Griffiths' long pass was deftly controlled on his chest by Matt Calland and after his lay-off Billy Farrell skipped past a defender into the area and his deflected cross left Calland with a free header at the far post. Chris Gent, distributing the ball well throughout, released Farrell and in the goalmouth scramble Olly Spencer had his close range blocked.

The home side offered little as an attacking force as the Rams had more of the play and Gent's teasing cross caused confusion and resulted in Jay Janecki hitting the post. Todd Reeday produced a good save from a rare Illingworth strike on target but the Rams extended their lead after 27 minutes. Janecki's cross saw Calland rise at the far post and his downward header did the rest.

The home side stirred themselves in the closing minutes of the half and Lee Marsh produced a timely block and Reeday brought off a brilliant flying save.

Illingworth came more into the game in a somewhat mundane second half which saw the introduction of manager Neil Griffiths as a substitute after 55 minutes. Farrell extended the lead two minutes later with a fine individual goal. Tight control wide right and a low finish from a narrow angle more or less settled the game.

Careless passing from both sides spoilt promising moves as it looked increasing likely there would be no alteration to the score. The home side's best, and arguably, only real clear chance saw the player running in on goal but his shot flew narrowly wide with Marsh's attempted tackle possibly the reason.

Neat interplay between Ross Risdon and Farrell left Farrell clear but he poked his shot wide of the far post but the game had already been won some time earlier.

Rams: Reeday, Marsh, A. Griffiths, Risdon, Gent, Spencer (N.Griffiths), Smee, Farrell, Janecki, Thickett, Calland

Illingworth 0 Rams. 3

Calland 2
Farrell

Att: 22