Billericay Town moved joint top of the Ryman Premier with a hard fought 1-0 success in Buckinghamshire.

With the home side fielding five changes, Town were unsure what to expect, though they'd have been grateful for the generosity of their hosts, as Mark Graham's well hit centre was sliced into his own net by Steve McGrath on 8 minutes.

That was all that was worthy of mention in the first period, with both sides struggling to find the attractive passing moves that has made their football a pleasure to watch over the past couple of seasons.

The second half was a different story however, with Aylesbury's Adam Campion giving an indication of things to come when he forced Billericay shot-stopper Jerome John into an acrobatic save.

Kesie Ibe then screwed a shot wide for the hosts, while lively substitute Alvin Bubb gave the visitors' defence cause for concern.

But Billericay hung on, surviving one last scare when Martin Carter's close range effort was well smothered by John.

Three wins from three for Town, and a home clash with Hendon on Saturday which should provide another full quota of points.

Published Sunday August 25, 2002