Ringmer trip brings no relief for Chichester City

The Blues took the lead on 25 minutes. Nick Wheeler’s cross was headed back across goal by Marc Whiteman, allowing Gavin Gordon to apply the finishing touch.

Ringmer extended their advantage during the opening stages of the second half, Whiteman dashing in from the left and shrugging off defenders before slotting the ball past Tosh Batey for a superb solo goal.

Playing up the slope, City found it very hard to make any impression. Ringmer were awarded a penalty on 73 minutes when Gordon was brought down, but Batey saved the strike from the one-time Manchester United reserve Whiteman.

There was another let-off for City in the dying moments when Gordon had the ball in the net again. Following a consultation with the linesman, the referee disallowed it, much to the surprise of all those present.

Ringmer now move out of the bottom three while Chichester appear virtually certain to be relegated.

This Saturday Adie Girdler’s men face a stern challenge at home to title-chasing Three Bridges, who haven’t lost a league game since October.

CHESTER BROWTON