Adam El-Abd hit the only goal as Albion under-19s overcame Gillingham in their opening Youth Alliance (South) play-off match.

Boss Dean Wilkins said: "The lads did well. It was a good performance. We have lacked a cutting edge but were very creative and managed to carve out a few chances.

"I have been encouraging my midfield players to get forward and join the strikers in the final third. That is why I was pleased that Adam did just that to get his goal."

Wilkins' young side have been suffering against bigger opponents.

He said: "Gillingham was a good test as far as that went but they coped well. It is a good start for us."

Albion entertain Bournemou that Sussex University on Saturday (11am).

Chris Breach and Steve May hope to recover from knocks.