TITLE challengers Havant & Waterlooville dealt another blow to Grays Athletic’s Ryman Premier League survival hopes.

An early goal from Rory Williams was followed by a penalty from Jason Prior to give the south coast side all three points.

Debutant Isaac Layne saw his deflected effort from 20 yards well saved by visiting goalkeeper Ryan Young.

Almost immediately, the high-flyers struck as Williams found the top corner with nine minutes on the clock.

Kieron Bishop came close to equalising for Jamie Stuart’s side, but the striker was denied by a smart stop from Young.

The visitors were awarded a controversial penalty just before the half hour mark.

Matt Patterson appeared to lose control of the ball and despite only slight contact, the referee deemed it enough to point to the spot.

Prior duly dispatched the spot kick past Grays goalkeeper Amadou Tangara.

The home side started the second half with added momentum and Harry Watkins sent a free kick just over the crossbar.

Lheureux Menga nearly made an immedate impact after coming off the bench, but he was also denied by the impressive Young.

Havant & Waterlooville were content with their two-goal advantage and were happy to see out the rest of the game.

Grays could not find a way past Young and they remain bottom of the Ryman Premier.