Bognor began 2004 just as they finished 2003, with a hard fought win.

Stuart Pearce scored an interception try and Rob Parry converted to win it, though Brighton would have snatched a draw but for Darren Brown's brilliant tackle in front of his own posts.

It was 5-5 at the break, Mark Gordon going over for the visitors. Skipper Karl Flynn said: "I always believed we would win."

Eastbourne were comfortable 25-13 home winners over Folkestone in London Four South East as three first-half tries set them on their way.

Matthew Thompson, Oliver Myehill and Danny Craven crossed with Nathan Ring adding a conversion as Eastbourne led 17-3. Ring's penalty and a Rob Light score rounded things off.

Uckfield remain rooted to the bottom of the table after slipping to an 11-3 defeat at Bromley.

Playing up the hill the visitors trailed only 8-0 at the break but were unable to take advantage of the slope in the second half with their consolation being a penalty from Duncan Hale.

Crawley put up a brave fight against Folkestone only to be overpowered 20-12 by the leaders at home.

Rob Dowling scored a superb individual try and winger Dean Fraser also touched down. Tom Anstice kicked a conversion.

East Grinstead kept their faint hopes of promotion alive with a 20-16 victory at third placed Old Dunstonians.