Brighton lost skipper Mark Jenkins with a broken arm but still stole a dramatic 15-10 win at Eastbourne.

A tremendous battle at the top of London Three South East was settled a minute from time when Paul Pride scored a stunning long range try after combining with Adrian Murray.

Jenkins had played on for a while, despite his injury, but was a spectator by the time the contest was settled.

He admitted: "It was just the battle we expected. Eastbourne are a good side and we knew they would be tough to beat at home.

"Nothing is won in November but I'm extremely proud of the boys for this performance."

Sam Gower scored a try for Eastbourne after Danny Craven's half break. Ollie Cummings kicked a conversion and penalty to give them a 10-3 interval lead, Mark Gibb replying with a penalty.

The hosts were convinced Danie Venter's second half score, following an ill-advised quick drop out, came with the help of a knock on.

Venter was ruled to have played the ball with his leg and Jenkins said: "The decision could have gone either way but 29 players did not play to the whistle and Danie did."

Gibb converted from wide out and Eastbourne pressure was repelled before Pride struck his winning blow.

East Grinstead suffered a disappointing 18-10 defeat at Charlton Park, despite leading by a lone Mark Barry penalty at half-time.

They leaked 15 points in five minutes, replied with a penalty which Barry goaled, but were sunk by a further penalty.

Lewes failed to take chances in a 13-7 home defeat to a big Sidcup side. Dave Hemsley's late try, converted by Dave Tyrrell, offered hope.