However, this was an improved performance and a result that hinged on a controversial off-side decision, write Verian Thomas and Pete Archer.

After Cleeve had taken the lead from a good cross, Brakes responded with Bellingham collecting the ball, running on with it then beating a defender before slotting it home.

The assistant referee flagged for offside, but not until the ball was in the back of the net, much to the consternation of the small band of travelling Brakes supporters amongst the crowd of 100.

Cleeve's second goal came from a free kick. Morris stifled an attack by rushing out from goal and saving with his legs, knocking the ball out for a corner in the process.

The referee awarded a free-kick rather than the corner and the resulting strike was poorly hit but took a slight deflection and was watched into the net by a stranded Richard Morris.

In the second half captain Adam Cooper pulled a goal back to make the game 2 – 1 and, if it wasn't for some excellent defending, both Bellingham and Corbett might have levelled the game.

Brakes return to the New Windmill on Saturday against Hednesford Town of the Northern Premier Division, who are expected to provide a stiff test for the team in its final game before competitive action.

Brakes line up: Richard Morris, Marcus Jackson, Martin Hier, Adam Cooper, Ryan Parisi, Guy Sanders, Liam Reynolds, Luke Corbett, Mark Bellingham), Mark Bellingham, Jai Stanley.
Subs: David Care, Neil Stacey, Josh Blake, Shay Morgan, Glen Webb.