Horley Town make it five wins on the trot

Horley took the lead after 23 minutes through top scorer Adam Grant. James McElligott then hit the post – and Grant hit the same post from the rebound.

A Horley defensive mix-up saw Eastbourne Town forward Bright Temba equalise in the 32nd minute.

Grant put Horley back in front after 60 minutes from a cross by Kevin Moreno Gomez.

Eastbourne Town keeper Chris Winterton kept his team in the match by saving a penalty from Ryan Smith – a rare miss from the Horley stalwart – but Horley held on to take the points.

After a 0-0 draw against much-fancied Newhaven in the opening match Horley have put four goals past Horsham YMCA, Broadbridge Heath and East

Preston and notched up 2-1 away wins at high-flying Lancing and Eastbourne Town.

They also won 4-2 against Hollands and Blair in the FA Vase preliminary round.

Horley manager Anthony Jupp is delighted with this season's performances. "We were third and challenging for promotion when last season was cut short because of Covid-19," he said.

"The lads worked their socks off pre-season, and they've all stuck together and are reaping the rewards. We're only six games in but have played three of what I see as top six sides.

"We're four points off the top – with two games in hand – and our 16-3 goal difference is the best in the division.

"The squad is small and has been tested with two games a week, but overall we've made a great start and I’m very proud of the team."

He added, "I must mention the support from the fans: they have been excellent and it’s truly appreciated."