It was a polished performance from Nicky Smith's team, making it seven points out of a possible nine.

After a goalless first half, in which there was little between the sides, the hosts struck twice, with last season's leading scorer James Rowe converting his second penalty in two games to take his total to four, and skipper Gareth Heath putting the result beyond doubt with a super strike 20 minutes from time.

The starting line-up showed two changes from the midweek draw with Aylesbury, both in midfield. Having served a two-match ban Sam Clarke got the nod ahead of Nathan Speed, while left-sided player Neil Cogger returned having recovered from injury.

The visitors started the game brightly, dominating the early play.

In fact their best chance of the game came as early as the third minute when, with the home defence still trying to find their bearings, Aaron Farrell released Adam Hughes on a run at goal, but he pulled his shot wide of the target to the relief of most of the fans in the 264 crowd.

AFC's Liam Jones was the first keeper in action, saving from Craig Thomas before Naveed Arshad got the better of his marker only to shoot narrowly wide.

It had been a nervy start by the home team, but after weathering the early storm they looked the better side.

It was 10 minutes before AFC put their first meaningful attack together when Rowe and Heath combined, with the latter firing into the side netting.

Both went on to have fine games with their link-up play posing plenty of problems for the visiting defence.

It was the start of a good spell for the home side who produced several sweeping moves without any end product; although they came close when Cogger and Heath broke quickly, with Heath volleying wide.

After their hesitant start the AFC rearguard were not seriously troubled as the half ended goalless. Despite the lack of goals it had been entertaining, and second period was to follow suit, with the home side looking the more likely to break the deadlock.

They should have done better after 50 minutes when Rowe powered down the right and found Jamie Ricks unmarked in front of goal, but his glancing header was inches wide.

Rowe then tried his luck after weaving past two defenders but shot straight at Christopher Gemmell in the Sutton goal.

The AFC pressure finally paid off after 50 minutes. Rowe made a darting run into the opposing penalty area, only to be brought down by Gemmell just as he was about to let fly.

It was a certain booking for the visiting keeper who was shown only a yellow card when most in the ground were expecting red.