It wasn’t pretty – but the three points were banked by the Crows from a game of few chances on goal from either team.

It took a single goal to separate the sides with Royston the more positive of the two, but looking shot shy and Northwood, whilst always in this game, also looking impotent in front of goal.

With the first period mainly played in the Northwood half, Steve Castle urged patience as move after move broke down and the home team’s escalating frustration was plain to see.

However, the forgettable, dour first half remained goalless.

There was better second-half link-up play with Chris Watters doing sporadic good work and Ryan Ingrey always eager to engage.

Ingrey had Royston’s first meaningful effort on goal on 65 minutes, albeit over the bar, that brought more optimism from the home crowd.

Eventually the precious breakthrough goal came as Ingrey’s endeavour supplied Watters for a trademark left foot, dangerous delivery.

Jack Bradshaw’s decent shot bounced back off the post and big Victor Adeboyejo found himself perfectly placed to tap in for the winner.