This was a game Swifts had to simply win on Tuesday if they were to continue their positive fight to avoid relegation and thanks to a a goal midway through the second half they picked up three crucial points.

It was also a tribute to the character of Robbie Nihill's side that they bounced back from Saturday's loss with this hard fought win over a strong Hendon side.

The visitors started brightly and the Swifts defence were put under pressure early on with Junior Lewis going close in the sixth minute.

Tony English then had to be at his best to get back at full stretch to concede a corner after the prolific Whitmarsh had broken clear.

In the 24th minute, Swifts defender Mark Cranfield was allowed space to carry the ball to the edge of the opposition box.

Christian McClean met his chip across the box and his neat lay off saw Tony Adcock nip in and sidestep the Hendon goalkeeper but the ball slid just the wrong side of the post.

Hendon had a good chance in the 28th minute when Lewis got on the end of a long ball but his first time shot was superbly saved by Kingsley Banks.

Three minutes after the break McClean broke clear and lashed a shot inches wide of the post.

Swifts got the bit of luck they needed in the 56th minute when Banks saved from close range and when the rebound was headed onto the bar.

Swifts scored in the 75th minute when Nicky Simpson drove the ball across goal and Alex Fiddes converted from close range.

The Heybridge defence stayed firm for the remaining minutes to run out winners.

On current form, Swifts should be able to secure enough points for their premier division survival.

Nicky Simpson who scored the Swifts winner on Tuesday.

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