Wingate & Finchley continued their push for the play-offs by picking up a 1-0 win at AFC Hornchurch on Saturday.

Danny Nielsen and Dave Norman handed a debut to new signing Bradley Hewitt, who has joined from Northwood.

Both sides struggled in the first half, with defences on top in an even contest. Martin Tuohy and Junior Lake then passed up good chances for Hornchurch.

The opener arrived a minute before half time, Rob Laney was felled inside the penalty area by Hornchurch’s Elliott Styles. From the resulting spot-kick, Dave Knight powered home the game’s only goal.

Further chances came and went after the break, with Laney and Ola Sogbanmu both missing opportunities to extend Wingate’s advantage.

Striker Laney commented afterwards: “I am delighted today with the win, and also with two clean sheets on the bounce now – the team is full of confidence and the dressing room is strong.”

The Blues host Witham Town on Saturday.