Margate 0, East Thurrock United 1

JOHN Coventry's Rocks were in jolly mood on their way home from Margate after a hard fought and deserved Bet Victor Isthmian Premier win which lifted Rocks to within three points of the play-offs.

Rocks gave a first start to recent signing, former QPR youth player Michael Tweed, and he didn't disappoint, but the eye catching performance came from Ayo Olukoga, with the popular midfielder having arguably his best game since joining last summer.

Twice in the opening half, Olukoga broke into the box, seeing one effort well saved by home keeper Joe Tupper, then setting up Michell Gilbey to rifle an effort just over.

Overall, the opening half was a pretty even affair, with goal chances at a premium.

However, the second half opened with Rocks carrying the game to the Seasiders. Gilbey went close on a couple of occasions, then Olukoga again got in, this time firing in a great effort on the turn, which Tupper did well to tip up and onto the roof of the net. Skipper Ryan Scott forced the ball over the line from a corner, but the referee ruled he had used his hand.

Rocks continued to plug away, and got their reward with 13 minutes left on the clock when Gilbey crossed for Frankie Merrifield to force the ball home from close range.