United went into this historically terse match with the bonus of having just completed a full year unbeaten at home in the league, the fact that the PA blared out “I predict a Riot” probably did not help to calm nerves, but, as they say, winning is a habit, and this was a great streak to be on.

Once again United were unchanged, sixteen goals in the last three games probably makes it a bit challenging for Anthony Storey to change things too much, captain Rhyle Ovenden returned from illness to lead the midfield, but that was it.

Right from the kickoff, it was obvious that both sides were in it to win it- Newhaven had the first chance, tamely hit over the bar, while United dominated the midfield, with the odd skirmish forward making the Dockers defence look nervous. No real clear cut opportunities until on 24 minutes, and slightly against the run of play, Newhaven took the lead. One thing about being on a run that long, United heads went up, not down, almost as if something had switched on- Stone and Overy both made advances on the haven goal, but it was the ever reliable Charlie Ball who slotted home to make it 1-1 just five minutes later. Now the nerves definitely showed from Newhaven, and stone nearly scored within the minute, before Charlie Ball, who was suffering from a bout of flu, made in 2-1 from the near post.

Sean Breach must have given the half time talk of his life - Haven were out and waiting within about ten minutes, chomping at the bit. It all fell apart as soon as the referee blew the whistle though - apparently Storey could also give a half time talk, and within two minutes Rhyle Ovenden rifled home from outside the box to make it 3-1, and the stuffing went out of Newhaven. They were not defeated though, and five minutes later they got a second, but although it was now 3-2 to United, there wasn’t the tension there - both Stone and Barlow had opportunities before Barlow secured the points to make it 4-2, and maintain United’s recent habit of scoring 4 per game!

Newhaven were resilient, but are also a team in the process of change, there will be sterner tests than this, starting on Saturday when the visitors are East Grinstead Town, back in the County League after 14 years in the Isthmian and off to a great start themselves - it’s a 3pm kickoff at the Oval, and sure to be top class entertainment once again.