An memorable night at Piddinghoe Avenue saw Peacehaven overwhelm the league champions and issue a resounding statement of intent for the season ahead. There was none of the uncertainty of Saturday's opening match, but instead a display of sheer pace, power and no little technique.

Pete Edwards made three changes, with Wes Millis, Tom Levitt and Tom Burton coming into the starting line up. His side were on the front foot from the start, and went ahead after just three minutes, Burton volleying home from Craig Bunch's flick on. Millis spurned a glorious opportunity shortly afterwards, blasting over the bar after being played in by Levitt, but the crucial second goal soon arrived.

Levitt's intelligent movement was proving to be too much for Eastbourne and it was he who extended the lead, chipping over the stranded Nick Maynard. Peacehaven were playing at a tremendous pace and should have been even further ahead at half time, with Snell and Burton both going close.

The balance of power started to shift after half time, as Eastbourne came out looking for a quick response. Peacehaven were starting to tire, and weren't helped by the loss of Ben Swetman, their most commanding defender, with the pressure building.

As was the case on Saturday the arrival of Roy Pook from the bench proved to be the turning point. He'd only been on the pitch for a minute when his volley was deflected past Maynard, all but confirming victory. Any remaining doubt was dispelled shortly afterwards, as Levitt's looping cross was met by a diving header, again from Pook.

Eastbourne struck back with injury time goals from Lucas Mann and Tom Morton, but these were no more than consolation. Peacehaven were the ones smiling at the end.

Baker, Hall, Hill, Jones, Swetman (Sargent 60), Millis, Burton, Snell, Bunch (Pook 75), Levitt, Smith (Clarke 60)

(Report by Alex Panton)