Men's football news
Dorking Wanderers took a giant step towards the Bostik Premier title with an important, if uninspiring, win against Lewes at the Dripping Pan.
Lewes hopes of an early advantage were wrecked in the 7th minute when Stacey Freeman scored a bizarre own goal from a corner after the ball hit his head and looped into the far corner.
The Rooks thought they had been awarded a 21st minute penalty, but with new striker Ben Pope waiting patiently to take the kick, the ref changed his mind after consulting with his assistant and gave offside instead.
Neither side were able to create many clear chances, with Lewes forced to shoot from distance which rarely troubled keeper Slavomir Huk.
Niall McManus went close with a rasping effort just before the break, but Lewes came out more determined in the early stages of the second half.
A clever cushioned header from Pope was collected by Huk at close range following a corner, whilst sub Dayshonne Golding’s confident run ended when his low shot fell wide of the far post.
In the 56th minute, Dorking doubled their lead against the run of play when Freeman struggled to clear Sam Beard’s cross, allowing James McShane the brief moment he needed to find room for a neat finish.
Lewes continued to press but resolute defending from the visitors ensured Dorking were able to claim three valuable points in their quest for the title.
Watch video highlights of the game from Your Instant Replay here:
Watch Darren Freeman’s reaction to the game here: