The reshaped side looked solid with teenage debutant Jon Lowe partnered by veteran Jeremy Bunday as centre backs.

Man-of-the-match Lowe helped repel several attacks as the hosts pushed for an opener.

But it took them 25 minutes to find a way through with the help of a defensive mix-up leaving veteran keeper Graham Deaves stranded.

Sol Buckner's men started brightly in the second half and livewire striker Tom Waters almost carved open a goal on 38 minutes only thwarted by the keeper.

Both teams cancelled each other out in early exchanges but as the game wore on Eastbourne looked the livelier and stretched their lead on 45 minutes from a break.

But Saxons again fought back and Rob Yates blasted a reflex shot inches wide after latching on to a bullet of a cross from Bunday.

Then on the 65 minutes, Tom Waters coolly swept home another Bunday cross to throw Saxons a lifeline.

But it was too little, too late as the hosts held on for the points.

Buckner said: "We improved our defence but need to bolster midfield and attack. We are competitive but just need that first win under our belts."

Report from Sol Buckner