Royston recorded their first home win of the season in a game full of endeavour but lacking any real quality.

Royston had the better of the first period, opening the scoring in the 15th minute. A well flighted free kick was delivered by Jordan Norville-Williams and Adam Murray rose highest to power in a header from close range.

The half failed to produce any further clear cut chances as both sides struggled to put any real passing movements together, although the physical presence of Murray continued to unsettle the away defence.

Diamonds came out strongly for the second period and deservedly drew level on the hour mark. Ben Farrell played in Jack Bowen, whose initial effort was superbly saved by Joe Welch. Luck wasn’t on the keeper’s side though, as the rebound fell at the feet of Bowen and he made no mistake second time round.

Royston were only temporarily on level terms as the winning goal came practically from the restart. Murray latched onto a long ball and saw his cross shot rebound from the post, before Vance Bola saw his shot blocked on the line. Sam Corcoran was following up though and although his initial shot was blocked he found the net from the rebound.

Rushden continued to press and Liam Dolman thought he had scored with a header but Welch made an outstanding save tipping the ball over at full stretch.

From there on in the Crows looked fairly comfortable and saw out time to claim the 3 points.

Royston: 1-Welch, 2-Ellesley, 3-Norvile-Wiliams, 4-Mentis, 5-Murray ©, 6-O’Keefe, 7-Castiglione (12-Gordon 53), 8-Scott-Morriss, 9-Bola (16-Bell 76), 10-Corcoran (14-Potton), 11-Martin

Unused: 15-Alomenu, GK-Smart

Attendance: 384

Crows MOM: Adam Murray