Worthing 2

Bishops Stortford 4

(Ryman League division one)

THE long journey home from the south coast was a happy one for Bishop's Stortford as they gained a valuable 4-2 victory at sun-drenched Worthing on Saturday.

The result saw the Blues climb to fifth in the Ryman League division one table with 20 points from 13 games so far.

Stortford took a grip of the game in the early stages and deservedly took the lead with 20 minutes played.

A corner was not sufficiently cleared, Carl Fannon lofted the ball back into the danger area and Trevor Paul beat home keeper Wastell at his near post.

The Blues continued to dominate and carved out a second goal a few minutes later. An excellent knock down from Vinnie John set up Troy Braham who poked the ball into the far corner from an acute angle and duly celebrated with a gymnastic flip.

Stortford started the second half slowly and the home side halved their deficit six minutes in. Weston powered through the Blues defence and unleashed a shot into the far corner, giving Micky Desborough no chance.

The goal gave Worthing renewed confidence and the Blues were forced on to the back foot, losing their shape in midfield.

The hosts equalised through Gavin Geddes with over 20 minutes remaining.

Stortford boss Martin Hayes responded by introducing Tyrone Hercules and Owen Beale for the tired Andy Purcell and Glen Southam.

The Blues regained their initiative and went 3-2 up. After John had been fouled 22 yards out, Gary Kimble curled the free kick precisely into the bottom corner of Wastell's net.

Relief poured out among the players and fans as Kimble went over to the loyal travelling support to celebrate.

The goal strengthened Stortford's nerve and from this point they looked certain winners.

The final goal came a minute before the end as a long clearance was missed by defender Stuart Tuck, allowing Paul to beat the advancing Wastell to the ball and watch as it trickled into the net.

Stortford play host to Slough Town at Woodside Park on Saturday and then to Wealdstone next Tuesday, 7.45pm kick-off.

October 17, 2001 16:12