Atherstone are catching the winning habit from Nuneaton Borough. This victory in Hampshire was the 'Adders' third in a row and was a thoroughly professional performance.

United were always in control and though Salisbury hit the woodwork late on and had an effort ruled out for offside, there was no denying the better side.

Salisbury were booed from the pitch at the end so complete had been United's dominance.

Barratt opened Atherstone's account in the 19th minute following a thrilling move. Kim Green flicked on a long ball to Danny Martin, the midfielder picked out Barratt, who had chased almost the length of the pitch in support, and the full-back drove the ball home from a dozen yards.

Salisbury tried to strike back in the opening stages of the second half when United were pushed back on desperate defence. The home men thought they had scored in the 64th minute but Lee Webb's effort was ruled offside.

Atherstone made the points safe however with two minutes to go when Green latched on to a fortunate rebound to chip over goalkeeper Jason Matthews.