Two former Worthing players could prove the key to Eastbourne Borough's hopes of mounting a promotion challenge.

Borough were unbeaten in nine games in the Dr Martens eastern division ahead of today's home game with Tonbridge.

They have won their last five on the spin and are now up to fifth following the midweek win over Sittingbourne.

The next morning the club were confirming the capture of striker Gavin Geddes who scored 16 goals for Worthing before moving along the A27 in the wake of manager Sammy Donnelly's departure from Woodside Road.

Borough coach Nick Greenwood said: "When good players become available we are always interested and we're delighted to have Gavin with us.

"He's scored goals wherever he's played, he's got a proven record and his experience will help young lads like Matt Allen and Dave Adams who are still learning their trade. He's a very useful addition to our squad."

Among his new team-mates is Stuart Tuck who joined Borough from Worthing last month and who has done so much to shore up their defence.

"Stuart was joking after Tuesday's game that he's never played in a team which has kept so many clean sheets, but it's no coincidence that we've tightened up at the back since he's joined us," added Greenwood.

"He's toughened us up and got the guys he's playing alongside going as well."

Borough's long term plan is to push for promotion to the premier division next season, but no one at the club will mind if it happens a season early.

"Our aim this year was a top six finish and nothing has changed in that regard," added Greenwood. "But if we get the chance to finish in the top two we'll be going hell for leather to try and achieve it."

Borough have a busy few weeks coming up with a re-arranged league game against Ashford on Tuesday followed by next Saturday's FA Trophy tie at home to Ryman League premier division Bedford Town.

They also know that they will be away to Burgess Hill in the third round of the Senior Cup sometime in the new year.

And that means another reunion for Geddes with one of his former clubs.