SUSSEX have plunged their old derby rivals into serious relegation danger.

And skipper Chris Adams is loving it.

Adams' men completed a five-wicket win over their cross-border foes at Hove yesterday, successfully chasing 125 after being 33-4 at tea.

It was tense stuff before Matt Prior's breezy 66 not out off 48 balls saw the 2003 champions clear of the drop zone.

They climb above Surrey, who have played more games than any other team, and Adams said: "This is a really big win.

"Not only does it put us back into contention for the title, but it also leave Surrey in a dangerous position.

"It has been the hardest win I can remember for a long time. We had to really knuckle down and bat and bowl well.

"When you chase 125 you know you're going to get there but you also know you'll have a few butterflies on the way.

"We knew they would come at us hard with the new ball but we said at tea we would be positive. If everybody played with that attitude, we knew we would get over the line."

Sussex can extend their leadership of totesport League division two when Leicestershire visit Hove tomorrow (1pm).

KING OF SWING - Page 35 brian.owen@theargus.co.uk