Boston United 3-1 Alfreton Town

Warren handed the Pilgrims a 16th minute lead at The Jakemans Stadium and despite Craig Westcarr equalising five minutes later, United led at half-time courtesy of Keane's first goal for the club.

Smith added a diving header on 77 minutes to seal a first victory of the league season for Adam Murray's side.

United boss Murray had opted to freshen up his team prior to kick-off, with four changes made to the side beaten at Southport on the opening day.

Murray got the necessary response from his players with a vibrant display and the Pilgrims took the lead when two incomers to the side combined — WARREN tapping home after Tyrell Waite’s cross has been fumbled by keeper Chris Elliott.

Alfreton levelled on 21 minutes when United were unable to clear their lines and WESTCARR prodded an angled finish beyond the reach of George Willis in the Pilgrims’ goal.

United stepped up a gear before the break and Waite’s drive deflected wide off Craig Disley before Elliott flung himself across goal to tip Warren’s bouncing effort wide.

Boston were back in front when James Clifton’s corner picked out Waite and once his fierce drive had been parried by Elliott, KEANE safely tucked home the rebound.

United had further chances before the break, with Smith acrobatically firing wide on the end of Clifton’s cross and Elliott producing a stunning save, high to his left, to thwart Brad Beatson from the edge of the box.

Chances were more at a premium after the break, although Ashley Hemmings’ curling effort flashed just wide from distance.

Alfreton sub Brody Robertson wasted a good chance to equalise when he headed Billy Whitehouse’s cross wide and United made them pay with SMITH diving to head home Clifton’s corner with 13 minutes to play.

Robertson had a further chance for Alfreton, but could only poke wide after getting in between Clifton and Willis to fire goalwards.

Boston (4-2-3-1): George Willis; James Clifton, Tom Batchelor, Jack Cowgill, Brad Beatson; Adam Chapman, Jordan Keane; Ashley Hemmings, Mason Warren (Kabongo Tshimanga 67), Tyrell Waite (Taron Hare 83); Gregg Smith. Subs (not used): Jamie McGuire, Karl Hawley, Liam Adams.

Alfreton (4-4-2): Chris Elliott; Sam Topliss, Luke Shiels, Billy Priestley, Tom Allan; Marcus Marshall (Billy Whitehouse 61), Craig Disley, Tom Platt, Ryan Jennings; Andre Johnson (Chris Sharp 55), Craig Westcarr (Brody Robertson 67). Subs (not used): Brad McGowan, Cecil Nyoni.

Referee: Anthony Tankard.

Attendance: 1,107 (47 visitors).