Arundel manager Steve Johnson has defended his decision to dump the entire first team into the reserves following last week's disappointing FA Cup exit.

Striker Miles Scerri was told to find another club after Saturday's 3-1 home defeat to Whitstable Town and the rest of the team were informed they would be playing in the reserves against Horsham YMCA.

Johnson stuck to his guns and his first-team laden reserves beat YMCA 4-0 on Tuesday, infuriating Horsham boss John Suter in the process.

Johnson said: "The players trust me. When I make a decision they know it is in their best interests and done for a purpose.

"They all played and not one of them moaned about it. They all played hard and worked hard and we came through it without any injuries or bookings."

Scerri, the leading scorer in Sussex last season, has now left the club but Johnson is keen to make clear it is not a personal issue.

Johnson said: "Miles Scerri has been an excellent servant for this club. I wish him all the best.

"He is a lovely lad and I get on well with him off the pitch. This is purely a football matter.

"Miles was good for me last season but I am looking for something else. I could live or die by this decision. If we get relegated, I will get the sack. I am taking a big chance by getting rid of Miles."