The Pilgrims were good value for their 2-0 victory, secured courtesy of Leesley's deft 45th minute header and Platt's driven finish seven minutes after half-time.

United did survive a scare when Jake Day crashed a penalty against the underside of the crossbar, but Craig Elliott's side nevertheless managed to end their home calendar year on a winning note.

The Pilgrims enjoyed plenty of early possession, with Fraser Preston particularly prominent for Elliott’s troops.

Preston was denied by two excellent saves from ex-Pilgrim George Willis while Alfreton sandwiched their keeper’s heroics with efforts of their own.

Adam Lund headed narrowly wide from a Bobby Johnson corner, while Dan Bradley teed up Luke Rawson to blaze across goal and wide.

Connor Dimaio and Jordan Burrow were both denied in a frenzied spell of Alfreton defending before the hosts took the lead when LEESLEY got up to glance home Scott Duxbury’s right-footed cross from the left.

United lost the services of influential skipper Luke Shiels at half-time but they were undeterred and ultimately clinched the points in the 52nd minute when PLATT drove home Leesley’s low cross with a firm effort at Willis’ near post.

Alfreton were handed the chance of a reprieve when Garner clumsily upended Day – but the Town striker smacked his spot-kick against the crossbar.

The same two players were involved at the other end moments later, with Day blocking on the line to deny Garner a third goal for United.

Boston (4-4-2): Ross Fitzsimons; Matt Tootle, Luke Shiels (Scott Garner 46), Pierce Bird, Scott Duxbury; Terry Hawkridge (Jay Rollins 78), Connor Dimaio, Tom Platt, Joe Leesley (Paul Green 78); Jordan Burrow, Fraser Preston. Subs (not used): Tyrell Warren, Peter Crook (gk).

Alfreton (4-2-3-1): George Willis; Adam Lund, James Jones (Nicky Walker 46), Dominic Smith, Josh Clackstone; Conor Branson, Will Atkinson; Dan Bradley, Bobby Johnson (Toby Lees 45), Elliott Reeves; Luke Rawson (Jake Day 53). Subs (not used): Nathan Fox, Danny Clarke.

Referee: Dean Watson.

Attendance: Behind-Closed-Doors.

Photography: Russell Dossett.