Bognor claimed another three valuable points after a 1-0 win at Ashford Town in difficult conditions in Division One South.

The visitors welcomed back Matt Russell and Lee Stevens up front against a side beaten just once in their last nine games and the early signs looked promising when Stevens played David Birmingham in down the left and his cross just eluded Russell at the near post.

Ashford had the wind behind them in the first half and created the better chances. Baron Jolly rifled an effort well wide, then defender Jim Hibburt did well to meet a corner but headed the ball just the wrong side of the post.

Richard Butler then saw a close range effort blocked by Craig Stoner and although the rebound fell invitingly to Andy Driscoll, he blasted his effort well over.

Stevens was twice denied by Ashford goalkeeper Tony Wells at the other end but Bognor were more of a threat in the second half when they had the elements in their favour and pushed Ashford back for long periods. They went ahead in the 55th minute when a corner was only half cleared to Kevin Murphy at the far post and his perfect cross was steered home by Russell.

Bognor boss Jack Pearce said: "Considering the conditions and our opponent's recent form, three points were a bonus. We worked hard in certain areas but it was always going to be difficult."