Royal Sovereign are currently unbeaten this season and top the Sussex Sunday League Premier Division but one player is not celebrating.

Darren Mansell scored a goal against Harbour View in his side's 3-1 win at Wish Road and then returned to the changing room to find his trainers, money and mobile phone stolen.

Centre forward Darren, 24, came off early after picking up a knock.

He said: "The day was going well, I had scored, we were winning and I was looking forward to a few beers afterwards. Then I injured my knee and had to come off.

"I got out of the shower and checked my pocket for my match fee, I couldn't find my money and I thought some of the boys were winding me up. Then I checked for my phone and that had gone too.

"I rang my phone and someone answered, all I heard was a lot of laughing and whistling and then they said they were the other side of the football pitch.

"I literally went mad and ran from one side of the park to the other forgetting about my injury. Obviously there was no one there but I am still hoping I might get my stuff back.

"The police gave me a crime number and sent a letter through. They are trying to sort it out, but I don't hold out much hope."

Police spokesperson Paddy Rae said: "Unfortunately it is a fact of life that belongings are stolen from parks every Saturday. We would advise players to lock their stuff in the changing rooms or take their valuables with them."

Well, if it is any consolation Darren, have a crate of beer on us.