Chasetown 2 Woodford 0

A re-shuffled Chasetown side got back to winning ways to boost their promotion hopes with a comfortable victory over struggling Woodford United.

Manager Charlie Blakemore introduced Phil Harris and Jermaine Gordon for their debuts, with both newcomers looking impressive.

After failing to score in their previous four games, the Scholars wasted no time in rectifying that statistic by opening the scoring in the third minute.

The home side forced a corner on the left flank and Ben Steanes' near post delivery was met by Andy Penny who celebrated his appointment as club captain by directing a powerful header past Matt Findley.

Harris was tormenting the United defence on the right wing and his determination to win the ball twice earned Chasetown corners.

There was a moment of concern as a lack of communication between Penny and Lee Evans resulted in a needless corner being conceded, but United failed to gain any advantage from the error.

Chasetown doubled their lead in the 36th minute.

Hawkins ripped apart the Woodford defence with a well weighted ball to Steane.

The midfielder took the pass in his stride and waited for the advancing Findley to commit before prodding the ball past the keeper to score his first goal of the season.

The home side continued to create chances and after Gordon had pulled the ball back from Perrow who saw his shot blocked, Dave Woodvine was following up with a well struck shot that the keeper saved well.

Perrow turned provider as he set up Craven to shoot narrowly over the bar.

Substitute Mark Branch did well to beat Kai Ridley to get into the area and find Perrow, but once again the accuracy in front of goal was missing as he fired wide.