MATT Bodkin’s 68th-minute strike was enough to give them a crucial win against derby rivals Dartford in former Billericay Town joint manager Grant Gordon’s first game in charge of Fleet.

Bodkin fired home from 15 yards from an angle following a quick counter attack to end Fleet’s three-game losing steak in the league.

It was a welcome end to a difficult week for Fleet who parted company with manager Greg Lincoln on Friday following to heavy defeats over the Christmas period.

The result moved Thurrock up one place to 20th.

Although they are still in the relegation zone they are now level on points with 19th-placed Dartford, and with fellow strugglers Lewes, Boreham Wood all losing Dorchester, and St Albans being held to a draw at home, it was a good day for the Ship Lane side.

For more on Fleet and their prospects see Friday's Thurrock Gazette.

Thurrock: Woolley, Pope, Flynn, Swaine, Harwell, Carlos, Bodkin, TJ Sie, Cracknell, Richards, Knight.