Erith & Belvedere secured their first victory in last five games, when they won 2-1 at Bashley to move up to fifth place in the Dr Martens Eastern Division table.

It was a hard-earned victory against a side which is anxious to move out of the relegation area.

Despite their lowly position, it was Bashley who went ahead as early as the third minute when Matt Jones took a quick free-kick which beat Dean Lee.

Lee was making his comeback after a two-match suspension and later he made several excellent saves.

Bashley should have scored again, but Stuart Cooper was denied by Lee then Michael Jackson shot against the post.

But on the stroke of half-time, Erith striker Darren Adams was brought down by Ally Simpson, and Adams dusted himself down before sending Bashley goalkeeper Oliver Rascall the wrong way from the penalty spot.

The Deres almost took the lead just before half-time when Richard Vercesi shot against the upright.

On the hour- mark, the hosts twice went close to scoring but Lee was equal to both by denying Jackson and Stuart Hussey.

The Deres then scored what proved to be the match-winning goal after 72 minutes when Glenn Billinness hit home a crisp shot from the edge of the penalty box.

Bashley still had plenty of chances to save at least a point, but Lee capped an inspired display by saving again from Hussey and then Cooper late in the game.

The deres' forthcoming fixtures

Saturday, December 22

v Wisbech Town (home)

Wednesday, December 26

v Rugby United (away)

Saturday, December 29

v St Leonards (away)

Tuesday, January 1

v Dorchester (home)

Saturday, January 5

v Corby Town (away)

Enquiries: 0771 3189912

December 20, 2001 14:30