EG set an example against lacklustre Lions

Tom Broadbent was restored to the side and Paul Jones joined a list of players not available. There was a welcome return for striker Max Thoms on the bench.

The visitors were quickest out the blocks, with Sebuila on a searing run for the Wasps forcing a corner which was cleared. Howard Neighbour’s shot sailed just over the bar for Pagham.

On 18 minutes, Joe Briggs latched on to a ball into the area to smash home his third league goal of the season. James Temple could have made it two but a linesman’s flag robbed him.

Howard Neighbour’s aerial challenge on Pelling saw the referee lecture the Pagham striker.

The Lions laid siege to the Wasps’ goal with Neighbour and Briggs in on Grinstead keeper Cazzana.

Briggs’ low shot on the half-hour was easily gathered by Cazzana.

A minute later, East Grinstead equalised. George Hillier took advantage of a ball into the area to strike past Andy Smallpeice.

Two minutes before the break a rebound in the Lions area almost resulted in an own goal.

The second period started with East Grinstead on the attack.

Two minutes in, their second goal arrived as Sam Cane struck the ball past Smallpiece.

Temple blasted over and Callum Cutler struck a shot straight at Cazzana.

Wes Hallett made a rare appearance for the Lions on the hour as Smallpiece was unable to continue in goal following a challenge.

The Lions took the game to the Wasps with a corner pinged in and hacked off the line.

Briggs shot just wide for Pagham before Temple left the field for Thoms to make his return.

Broadbent and Briggs had further chances while Cane had a shot saved by Hallett.

Neighbour got in on the act as the Lions tried to find an equaliser. His run on 86 minutes forced probably the save of the game from Cazzana.

PAGHAM: Smallpiece (Hallett 58), Buckland, Broadbent, Pearce, Ford, JBooker, Briggs, N Murfin, Temple (Thoms 73), Neighbour, Cutler (Anderton 58). Sub not used: Cox.

JON ROSE