Ringmer joint boss Bob Munnery saw his side open up a three-point lead at the top of division one and declared: “That’s a step nearer staying up.”

Dave Altendorff got the only goal as the pre-season favourites for relegation won 1-0 at East Grinstead.

Munnery said: “To say I’m delighted is an understatement but it is just another three points to take us closer to staying in division one. We are under no illusions about trying to win this league.”

Pagham missed the chance to go second as they were brought down to earth with a bump by Three Bridges who won 4-0 thanks to goals from Joel O’Hara, James Grant, Dean Wright and Mark Zydonik.

Lucas Mann and Brad Manton were on target for Eastbourne United as Whitehawk’s disappointing start to the season continued while strugglers Shoreham and Chichester City drew 1-1.

Chris White enjoyed a happy return to former club East Preston as goals from Clay Lamont and Wayne Joseph earned Horsham YMCA a 2-0 win.