JAMIE White’s 84th minute winner kept Salisbury City at the top of Conference South during a frustrating afternoon at the Ray Mac.

Whites made a strong start, keeping up the momentum gained during their midweek win over fellow high-flyers Bath.  Dan Fitchett had a few early chances, including a strong penalty claim ruled to be just outside the area.

But Salisbury’s former boss Tommy Widdrington was not going to make life easy for his ex club. And despite rarely testing keeper Will Puddy, Eastbourne were well organised and pulled off a few chances.

Half time: 0-0

After the break the hosts stepped up the pressure, Dan Fitchett, White and Theo Lewis all had promising efforts but the visitors kept their discipline, determined to take home a point.

And with a goalless draw looking the inevitable outcome, White popped up to produce a dramatic late winner.

Clarke’s move to throw Robbie Matthews on inside 60 minutes turned out to be a great success. The substitute set up White whose first was stopped by keeper Danny Potter, but the former Saints striker made no mistake second time around, converting the rebound to take home a well earned three points. 

Salisbury assistant manager Mikey Harris said: “Eastbourne came to frustrate us but we stuck to our plan throughout and deserved to take all three points.”

Whites: Puddy, Udoji, Dutton (c) (Preen), Hart, J Clarke, Lewis, McPhee, Clark (Matthews 60), Brett, White, Fitchett

Subs not used: Scott, Baggridge, D Clarke

Scorer: White (84)

Att: 769

Star Man: James Clarke