In truth, it was a far from vintage performance but every three points is crucial at this stage of the season.
The early going saw United in the ascendency, with the attacking threat of Cooper, Mann, Crabb and Baitup looking to test the EP defence.
The perseverance of Crabb saw himself dispossess Mark Barnard, before squaring to Baitup who saw his effort saved with Mann just beaten to the loose ball in the area.
Soon after, an East Preston counter attack nearly caught the United defence out as Kris Harding bore down on goal, but James Broadbent was more than equal to his effort, with the rebound thrashed across goal.
With 30 minutes played, United managed to find a way past the stubborn home defence as Baitup brushed off his marker a confidently slotted home his 15th league goal of the season when one-on-one with the ‘keeper.
A superb reflex save denied Adam Davidson from doubling the lead following a right wing corner from Max Hollobone.
Hollobone saw an effort palmed behind at the start of the second half as United sensed a second goal, but instead EP equalised.
The lively Harding found a way past Dave Smart before rounding James Broadbent and rolling the ball home for an equaliser that clearly lifted the home side.
With 15 minutes left to play, Bunn was introduced to the action and Tobi Hutchinson shuffled his pack with a change of formation.
Three minutes later, it paid dividends as cross from Crabb was cushioned back to Bunn who slotted into the far corner to the relief of the travelling United faithful.
Dan Huet fired narrowly over following an EP counter attack soon after, but with six minutes to go Bunn made the game secure as his left footed effort beat home ‘keeper Ben Purkis at his near post as United travelled back to The Oval with three points