Urchins upset high-flying rivals

Hornchurch began 2012 in style with a 3-0 win over Ryman Premier Division promotion rivals Lowestoft.

Urchins bounced back after their 4-1 defeat at Canvey to pull to within two points of leaders Billericay, who were held to a 1-1 draw by Bury.

Martin Tuohy, sent off in the loss against Canvey, got the ball rolling from the penalty spot after strike partner Lewis Smith was brought down in the area by Sam Gaughran.

Lowestoft keeper Andy Reynolds guessed the right way, but Tuohy’s effort found the back of the net.

Urchins came under pressure after the break, but they held out and scored with their first attack of the second half just past the hour.

Smith was the man to double the lead when, after a good run from Joe Anderson, Tuohy laid the ball on to Smith and his deflected effort went past Reynolds.

Left-back Anderson found his shooting boots with 76 minutes gonek when he was allowed time and space before unleashing a right-footed effort into the bottom corner of the net to record his first goal for the club and complete an assured performance by Jimmy McFarlane’s side.

Romford, meanwhile, suffered a second successive defeat in Ryman Division One North.

Having seen their seven-game unbeaten run in league play come to an end with a 3-0 reverse at Redbridge, Boro were beaten 1-0 at home by Thamesmead.