THURROCK got one over on play-off rivals Cheshunt as Glenn Poole struck an important winner to keep them fourth in the Ryman North standings.

After several disappointing recent results, Fleet needed points and it was an early goal that won the encounter.

Poole swung in a 30-yard free-kick with the ball’s flight deceiving everyone in windy conditions and finding the net.

And manager Mark Stimson said it was a crucial victory.

“It is a good three points against a good side who, like ourselves, are looking to stay in the play-off positions,” he said.

“The boys stuck to the game plan and showed great desire in their defending and could have added a couple more goals.”

Jack Barham was halted by the Cheshunt stopper after Poole had given Fleet a first half lead.

Home goalkeeper James May was by far the busier of the two stoppers, but it remained just 1-0 at the break.

Poole’s delivery from the set-piece was causing chaos, with Joe Christou and Rich Halle almost converting one of his kicks.

Up the other end, Bobby Mason had to be alert to keep out Jason Hallett, only for Onyemah to test May once more, with the custodian making a superb late save.

Thurrock: Mason, R Winn, Sutton, Halle, Onyemah, G Winn, Clark, Poole, Barham (Pindy 69’), Christou, Goode

>Fleet have signed experienced former professional Stuart Thurgood.