DEPLETED Seaford got off the mark for the season with a 2-0 defeat of promoted Clymping in County League division two.

Manager Bob Laundon was without 12 players but his back-up men responded superbly to give him a headache going forward.

Laundon had three players out due to cricket with others at a wedding, abroad or injured.

He said: “I joked in my programme notes that I hope the sun stops shining abroad, people fall out with their relatives and cricket is banned!

“It is very good to get three points and I will have a major headache when they are available again. Everyone knows now they have to fight for their places because competition is so strong.”

Aaron Meehan missed a penalty for Clymping before goals from Rickie Mitchell and Scott Dartnall gave Seaford victory.

Rye United made it two wins from two after recovering from going behind in the first minute to win 3-1 at Storrington. Simon Cole, Dominic Clarke and Duncan McArthur (penalty) netted for the visitors after Chris Grantham put the Swans ahead.

Loxwood got off the mark with a 3-0 win at Steyning who are pointless after three games. Fred Bowles, Damon Aston and Chris Simmons got the goals.

Rustington fought back from two goals down to draw 2-2 away to Westfield with Andy Boxall and Steve Kirkham on target. Adam Hurley and Mick Dadswell netted for the hosts.