Billericay gave a good account of themselves on Saturday though eventually fell to Ryman League title favourites Gravesend and Northfleet.

Blowing gales ruined this game as much of a spectacle, and it was evident at time that both sides were going to struggle to come to terms with the elements.

Second-placed Gravesend have been hot on the heels of Canvey Island this season in pursuit of promotion, and they showed their worth on Saturday, hussling Billericay and creating the better of the chances on offer.

Simon Parker went close for the hosts early on, before Craig Wilkins headed wide when well placed on 36 minutes.

A rare foray into home territory presented itself to Billericay on the stroke of half-time as Joe Baker wrestled his way into the box to send a shot rattling against the upright.

On 50 minutes the breakthrough arrived. Rob Owen floated a ball into the box, and as Chris Moore failed to clear the danger first-time, Wilkins slid in to poke the ball home and set Gravesend up for their 24th league win of the campaign.

They nearly doubled their advantage with Aaron Bennett's header on 70 minutes, though were, in the end, more than happy to hold on to the one goal that takes them to within three points of leaders Canvey with three games in hand.

Published Sunday, March 10, 2002