SPARTAK entertained Stockingford on Saturday, who were second in the table at the start of the day and had also been billed as title favourites in pre-season.

Spartak started the game well and had the first effort at goal when Ezra Fuller shot just wide. In a competitive game chances were few and far between.

Simon Campbell was outstanding in midfield for Spartak and Stockingford struggled to handle him all afternoon.

On 29 minutes Spartak got the all-important opening goal when Ezra Fuller latched onto a wonderful through ball from Kieron Holland and shot high into Mark Roper's goal from 15 yards out.

The second half was just like the first with Spartak strong all over the park and not giving Stockingford an inch.

Spartak defended well, restricting Stockingford to long-range shots.

Even though referee Steven Massey felt the need to add nine minutes of stoppage time, Stockingford could still not break down a strong Spartak side.

To add to Stockingford's misery, substitute Ian Boyes was given his marching orders in the 90th minute for a second bookable offence. A mention must go to referee Massey and his two assistants, who all had outstanding games.