Ahead of the match, Ian Deakin named a blended squad that featured players from both the first team and academy. Youngsters Casey Johnson, McKenzie Bult, Ben Cassady, Alfie Barker, Jonny Lees and Alans Voskresenskis were given an opportunity to showcase their talent in the midweek fixture.

Following a quick start to the match, Long Eaton were in front after just three minutes played. Micah Jebbison cut in from the left and played the ball inside to Cameren Philip who let the pass run through to Clark for the finish.

The Blues looked dangerous down the flanks but Heanor Town soon grew into the match. On loan from Long Eaton, Riley Phillips caused trouble for the visitors defence out wide but could not find the angle to challenge Mitchell Leivers in goal for The Blues.

As the first half came to an end Phillips created another great chance for the hosts as he dribbled inside to the byline and crossed the ball for Kieran Wells to shoot with a volley which narrowly cleared the crossbar.

Long Eaton started the second half on the front foot once again. Winning a free-kick on the edge of the box, Clark beat the wall but Heanor’s goalkeeper caught the strike comfortably.

Alex Hardwick lead the line with a high press and won the ball back in the final third - playing Philip through on goal, although a crucial slide tackle from the home defence denied the forward a goal scoring opportunity.

However, the hosts soon found their way back into the match after a mixup in The Blues’ defence. Restoring parity in the 52nd minute.

Level once again Heanor fired themselves in front after 75 minutes played and made it three with ten minutes left to play.

At the very end of the match Johnson found space on the edge of the box and picked out the bottom left corner of the goal with a lovely finish but with time running out it proved to be a consolation for The Blues.