Brighton coach Bert Merritt wants to know why one of his key men is still in the sin bin.

The Waterhall club thought lock Mark Gibb would be free from suspension in time for last week's clash with high-flying Sidcup.

Instead, they had to do without his services for a 15-8 win which puts them on the fringes of the Three South East promotion race.

Gibb and his fellow lock Danie Venter, who has been struggling with injuries, have yet to turn out together this season.

Merritt said: "As far as I am concerned Mark's ban ended on the 17th, but Sussex said we could not play him.

"He has claimed his innocence and served the ban. Now let him play rugby."

Gibb was banned after being sent off at Askeans last season.

Merritt's frustration was doubled when he saw some of the treatment being handed out to his skipper Mark Jenkins in last week's Waterhall clash.

He added: "What really concerns me is the inconsistency. Our skipper was stamped on last week and the same player was warned twice by the referee, but there were no cards, just penalties.

"Mark's a tough brute and he will not moan but I was not happy about it."

At least results are looking up. Brighton's third successive win lifted them into mid-table and they could really spice things up by beating visitors Worthing on December 8.

Gibb and Venter are expected to line-up for that one.

Look out too for reinforcements from overseas in the New Year.

The first prize of the county season is up for grabs tomorrow.

Sussex Two West rivals Midhurst and BA Wingspan contest the Sussex Junior Plate final at The Salts in Seaford (2pm).