Struggling St Leonards have launched a late bid for eastern division survivaI.

They looked certainties for relegation to the County League after a 4-0 drubbing at leaders Hastings a week ago.

The future looked grim when they slipped to rock bottom following six successive defeats in which they scored three goals.

But they followed up last Thursday's impressive 3-1 home victory against Eastbourne Borough with another vital win against third-bottom Tonbridge.

Saints manager Glynn White believes four more points will ensure his third-from-bottom side escape the drop.

Defender Danny Moody scored his second goal of the season to secure the three points with a back-post header from an inswinging Terry White left-wing corner in the 17th minute.

White said: "We played well in midweek and needed to after the performance against Hastings. But it would have meant nothing if we hadn't have followed it up.

"Beating Tonbridge was a massive result. I look at our run-in and it's better than most. I think 45 points will keep us up."

White has introduced physical players like Dave Fisher, Liam Barham and Roy Godden since taking his first managerial job late last year.

His tactics appear to be working, although the outcome of their dogfight is far from certain.

He said: "The game was nerve-wracking for everyone. The conditions were not conducive to passing football and we were really up against it playing into the wind in the second half.

"They had a couple of chances to score but it is about time we had some luck. We battled well and I am delighted to keep a clean sheet which is ultra-important.

"I knew the game would be physical so I fielded a big team. The secret in this league is to be big and strong and have a little bit of quality."

Saints twice enjoyed good fortune in the second half.

Tonbridge skipper Alan Tutton headed against the post and, with two minutes remaining, goalkeeper John Odlum tipped a long-range free-kick from Ryan Briggs against the crossbar.

Nevertheless, Saints defended well and, with Dominic Barclay back leading the line, they always looked threatening on the counter attack.

The return of Barclay has coincided with a six-point haul for St Leonards. The former Bristol City striker has added a cutting edge.

The 25-year-old, who started the season at the Firs, left to join Ryman League Croydon on dual registration following the sacking of White's predecessor, Micky Taylor, in November.

The move turned sour and he was coaxed back by White, director Andy Thomson and player Des Boateng.

Barclay marked his return with two goals against Borough and he is promising more to ensure the club stay up.

He said: "I am especially pleased to be back at St Leonards helping them out.

"When I agreed to come back they said they hoped I would make an impact. All we can do is try and win every game and I am always looking to score. I have scored two in two games and I'll be looking for a third in our next match."

White said he was delighted with Barclay's return, especially as rivals Hastings tried to sign him.

He said: "Dominic has made a big difference. There is no substitute for someone who can look after the ball and put away a few goals. His goals to chances ratio is very good and he will convert the chances we are making."

Saints entertain Erith tonight in another vital match. Top scorer Boateng should play after shrugging off a hamstring injury.