Maguire-Drew gets the winner on Worthing debut

Lloyd Dawes felt a thigh strain in the warm-up and played no part in Wednesday's game

The 18-year-old, who signed on loan from Brighton & Hove Albion earlier this week, netted 25 minutes from time as Rebels moved up to third in the table.

It was a second away success in just four days for Worthing as they followed up a 2-1 victory at Whyteleafe on Saturday.

The win puts Rebels four points clear of fifth-placed Hastings and sixth-placed Faversham Town, although Town have a game in hand.

Worthing joint boss Gary Elphick felt it was a massive win for his side and said: “It was a good performance on a tricky pitch against a very physical side.

“The other teams around us have been winning so it was vital we got the three points to keep up those play-off hopes.

“Jordan was really impressive for us on his debut. He looked really good and he’s hit the ground running here now.

“The only downside on the evening for us was Lloyd Dawes having to pull out in the warm-up. He felt it a little in his thigh and we thought best not to risk him, should we reach the play-offs he is someone we will need.”

Rebels were in control throughout and should have won by a more convincing margin.

Elphick saw a shot cleared on the line, while South Park’s goalkeeper made a fine save to deny him again in the opening 45 minutes.

Worthing were rewarded with the opener 20 minutes after the break. Elphick’s header was parried and Maguire-Drew was on hand to fire home the rebound.

Rebels were gifted the chance to add a second five minutes later. Harvey Sparks was hauled down in the penalty area and a spot-kick was awarded but Brannon O’Neill missed the penalty as it ended 1-0.

Worthing host Tooting & Mitcham United on Saturday.

WORTHING: Banks; Hendon, Heath, Elphick, Metcalf; Bugiel, O’Neill, Jackson, Newton, Sparks; Maguire-Drew. Subs: Edwards (O’Neill), Axell (Jackson), Fagan, Piper.

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