A stunning free kick from Michael Malcolm put paid to an unwelcome three match run without a league win at Leatherhead.

Lewes looked in control for most of the match yet despite the obvious supremacy, the players seemed unable to shake of the inertia until Malcolm netted a free kick from 25 yards, his first league goal since the win at Canvey in October.

Paul Booth had a couple of early chances as the visitors settled down for an easy afternoon, none more so than old favourite Rikki Banks, back in goal on loan from Eastbourne Borough.

However it didn’t take long for what seemed to be boredom to settle in amongst the Lewes ranks, as Leatherhead visibly grew stronger as the game wore on.

Just before half time, Steve Robinson gave the ball to Elliott Thompson who could hardly believe his luck and it took a late tackle from Harding to snuff out the danger.

With Paul Booth having a frustrating afternoon leading the line on his own, Christian Nanetti was replaced by Malcolm just after the hour and things slowly started to improve for Lewes with two up front.

The Rooks’ increased urgency was slowly paying dividends and the patience of the travelling fans was finally rewarded sixteen minutes from time.

Leatherhead’s Jamie Coyle was penalised for a push in the back on Paul Booth and up stepped Malcolm for his rasping free kick which had keeper Chico Ramos scrambling in mid air but unable to prevent a defeat.

Leatherhead
Ramos, Pestle, Hill, Boulter, Coyle, Francis, Thompson, Richmond, Terry, Hutching, Andrews
Subs: Macleod, Manners, Dean, Thomas, Matheson-Light

Lewes:
Banks, Hamilton, Ciardini, Somner, Robinson, Hustwick, Nanetti (Malcolm 61), Stavrinou, Harding, Booth (Draycott 81), Jarrett

Unused: Nicholas, Noble

Ref Kyle Kirkbride