Purfleet took the plaudits in the battle of Essex on Saturday, condemning Grays Athletic to a rare home defeat.

Athletic took the upper hand early on, showing all the style and aggression that has helped them achieve their lofty 3rd place in the table.

Supporters didn't have to wait long for the opener, as Nathan Thomas negotiated space to shot past Alex O'Reilly at the near post.

Edwards and Risley then went close to doubling that advantage before Purfleet's Terry Bowes tried a long-range effort which Mel Capleton did well to push away.

The second half was somewhat of a different story though as 5th-placed Purfleet turned the match on its head. Firstly, Jimmy McFarlane rose unchallenged to nod past O'Reilly, then on 72 minutes, McFarlane unsettled a nervous looking defence allowing Colin Simpson to head home unmarked.

Grays valliantly tried to find a way back into the game, though the points were secured in injury time as Bowes was fouled in the area by Alan Keeper who received his marching orders.

Simpson converted from the penalty spot to ensure the points were going back to Lakeside.