Littlehampton Town picked up a vital win on Saturday afternoon in their quest to remain in the Isthmian South East Division.
A rare moment of quality was enough to earn the Golds three vital points in this clash with Sussex rivals Eastbourne Town. Nick D’Arienzo took time off from ably performing his defensive duties in the 33rd minute and curled a delightful ball over the visitors back line.
Evergreen George Gaskin instantly brought the ball under his spell and squared it to Josh Short to apply the finishing touch from close range.
Until then there had been very little to choose between the sides but the goal gave Golds confidence to take control. Kieron Pamment went close to doubling their advantage on the hour and Gaskin went closer still in rattling the bar on 75 minutes.
D’Arienzo and his fellow defenders ensured the visitors were kept at arm’s length as Golds saw out a victory that was doubly valuable with Phoenix Sports defeat meaning they ended the day 8 points clear of the relegation zone.
The result meant Sussex neighbours Steyning Town and Lancing were relegated with four games left to play. A win for the Golds next weekend at Beckenham Town coupled with a Phoenix Sports loss at home to Sevenoaks will see them safe for another season.