Thame United made Ryman League Division 1 North leaders Northwood work hard for the points on a good playing surface at Chestnut Avenue, going down 2-0.

In an evenly-contested first half, the early chances fell to United with Enzo Silvestri and Andy Williams both going close with headers as the visitors dictated the opening minutes.

It was excellent entertainment, with both teams displaying plenty of passion and flare.

Alex Stewart was unlucky to see his well-struck free kick hit the bar in the eighth minute.

At the other end, United keeper Alan Foster, back from suspension, was at his best, saving well from Kieron Knight and a long-range effort from Dave Sargent.

It was honours even at the break, but the home side gradually took control after the restart.

Northwood's leading goalscorer Scott Fitzgerald came off the bench in the 60th minute and opened the scoring six minutes later, as he fired home after good wing play from Gavin Hart.

The pressure continued as United continually gave the ball away, and it was Hart who was again the provider for the second goal in the 76th minute.

In a sweeping move, the ball arrived with Hart, who beat Dave Thornton and delivered a pinpoint cross for Chris Moore to beat Foster from close range.

Youngster Paul Hedger was introduced and gave a lesson to his colleagues in how to retain possession with his neat passing.

United rallied and had two great opportunities to score.

The first fell to Jemaine Ferreira, who beat two defenders, but his shot lacked power.

Moments later, substitute Danny Keen found himself clear of the home defence, but snatched at the chance and failed to hit the target with the keeper stranded.

Thame Utd: Foster, Silvestri (Hedger 77), Bartley (West 58), Saulsbury, Williams, Abbasi, Avery, Jones, Stewart (Keen 70), Ferreira, Thornton. Subs not used: R Smith, S Smith.