Rushden & Diamonds captain Curtis Woodhouse bagged a first-half penalty to hand them three points away at Blue Square Premier newcomers Eastbourne.

Woodhouse, who is also a professional boxer, slotted into the corner on 26 minutes after Eastbourne defender Neil Jenkins had fouled Lee Tomlin.

Diamonds came close again when Tomlin fired in a shot from 20 yards, but goalkeeper Lee Hook did well to save.

Jean-Michele Sigere had the best chance for Eastbourne, but he blazed wide.

Booked: Smart.

Rushden & D'monds: Marriott, Osano, Jelleyman, Burton, Hope, Kelly (Gulliver 86), Woodhouse, Burgess (Corcoran 81), Dean McDonald (Wolleaston 70), Lee Phillips, Tomlin.
Subs Not Used: Mitchell, Smith.

Booked: Woodhouse, Tomlin.

Goals: Woodhouse 26 pen.

Att: 1,605.

Ref: A Halliday (West Yorkshire).