Five wins in row for Westfield

The victory lifted the Westies up to third in the table although they dropped a place following results in midweek.

Defensive resolve seems to have been the key to their success with goalkeeper Peter Newstead having been beaten just twice in that time.

"We defended pretty well," said manager Steve Johnson. "We're fairly strong at the back in the air now and Pete's handling was good. We were in control after about the first 10 or 15 minutes and we never really looked like conceding from open play. I'm quite happy with the defence that I've got to be honest and it always gives you a chance if you keep clean sheets."

Especially when possessing players with Duncan Jones' menace at the other end of the field. The former Hastings Town marksman's 67th goal in his fourth season at the Parish Field earned the three points which went some way to avenging the double which their Brighton-based opponents administered upon them last season.

And a slick goal it was too. Sam Jamison, seemingly relishing a freer role, whipped the ball in from the right and Jones, making his first start since October 2, slid it into the far corner. The goal finally came five minutes from the end of a second quarter which the home side bossed.

Mile Oak, as they did at the corresponding stage of the first half, began the second period in assertive fashion but, after the initial 10 minutes, the remainder of the match was mostly played out in their half.

A second goal would have enabled home hearts to beat a touch slower and Clarke, who struck the inside of the post with a header, and Jones, who poked just wide after beating the goalkeeper to a long kick, came close to providing it.

Johnson added: "We played some quite good football and it was comfortable really. But 1-0 is always a bit tight."