Off the back of 2 harsh defeats, Muggsys men returned home looking to bounce back with a win against Alford, a team who started the day 18th, but who had a raft of new signings on board as their battle for survival continued after some good recent draws.

Muggsy, celebrating his 400th game in charge, opted for an unchanged XI following a spirited performance away to Worthing in the cup.

The Crows couldn’t have got off to a better start, not even a minute was on the clock when the in form Danny Powell got The Crows off to a flying start, burying it from close range.

And with confidence high, The Crows carried on the pressure with Jacob Lamberts free kick from just outside the 18 yard box, forcing the Alfold keeper to make a superb diving save off to his left.

Alfold tried to get back into the game, trying to slow the pace down and control possession but mainly in their own half, and didn’t have any real chances to note. And then The Crows took off, dominating large periods, with Hyland and Powell threatening, the latter could have scored his second, but for the Alfold defender just about nicking the ball away, and almost connecting with a diving header after some good play down the right from Mayhew and Killick.

The defence rarely troubled in the first half, but Tom Boddy and Harrison Mayhew were getting on the ball and building attacks from the back.

The second half started predictably, Alfold looked hungrier but really lacked any end product, and come the hour mark The Crows were fully in control of the game. Enter the subs, Pearson, Vowles and London all entered the fray and made an impact, a Pearson cross, headed down by Killick before a twisting and turning Hyland fired over started the dominance.

Forster, who had been excellent throughout, made light work of the Alfold defence before Murrain had a shot deflected wide.

As the game wore on The Crows looked more and more likely to score. A Salter corner, headed on by Murrain, found it’s way to Hyland who must’ve thought he’d scored, but for a superb block from the Alfold defender.

As Muggsys men kept searching for the knockout blow, a free kick was won on the edge of the area, Tom Pearson stepped up and rifled it home into the top corner, sending the fans into raptures, and making sure the valuable 3 points stayed in Crowborough.

Final Score: 2-0
MOTM: Rory Salter