Worthing blew East Grinstead's promotion bid off course with a crucial 23-19 win at blustery Saint Hill.

The visitors turned a 12-3 half-time deficit around with three second-half tries to strengthen their own title challenge in London 3SE.

Both Sussex clubs still have to visit leaders Sidcup, but while Worthing also have a game in hand Grinstead know their hopes of finishing second and earning a play-off place effectively rest on the outcome of this Saturday's trip to Kent.

Steve O'Reilly's four penalties earned Grinstead a half-time cushion, but with the elements in their favour, Worthing got on top after the break.

Prop Raynn Bruce, centre Charlie McCurrich and winger Paul Todd scored tries while Ben Coulson added two penalties and a conversion before Paul Day's late consolation score for G's which O'Reilly converted.

There were no complaints about the outcome from the home side. Spokesman Steve Perry said: "The wind spoilt the game. The line-outs were a lottery and passing the ball more than three or four yards was difficult.

"Worthing seem to have improved as the season has gone and physically they had a bit too much for us. We know what we have to do now and beat Sidcup, but Worthing could do us a favour by winning there as well."

Meanwhile, Crawley's hopes of hauling themselves off the bottom of the table effectively ended with a 27-12 defeat at Brighton.

The visitors, who arguably had the better of the forward exchanges, led 12-10 at one stage, but winger Rob Ross crossed twice and further tries from Riaan Kruger, James Jefferies and Mark Gibbs made it comfortable for the hosts in the end.

Brighton coach Bert Merritt said: "We did look a bit lacklustre up front and the wind meant the game didn't flow, but our backs scored some good tries."

Lewes produced one of their best performances of the season as they ran in five tries in a 31-26 success at Tonbridge Juddian.

Skipper Dave Hemsley, Ross Armour, Dave Tyrrell, Neil Rumble and a penalty try made the difference with Rumble adding three conversions. In a good forward display by the visitors, veteran prop Dave Harris stood out.