Chichester City's title hopes suffered another huge setback at Southwick on Saturday as the home side romped to a 6-2 victory. City have now picked up just one point from their last four games.

Southwick had been averaging less than a goal a game but suddenly discovered their shooting boots as City left wide gaps in their defence to leave on loan goalkeeper Rob Mitchell from Winchester City badly exposed.

Jack Dineen put the home side ahead after five minutes but City equalised through Lewis Fennymore after a clever exchange with Jamie Laidlaw. Dineen then missed a penalty but a header from O'Brien and a free kick from Streeter put the Wickers in the driving seat at half time.

Matt Smith made it 3-2 to give City some hope but the visitors left too many gaps at the back and the home side broke away three times to stretch their lead through Aaron MacMillan and Adam Burton twice.

Elsewhere a home victory for Rye over League leaders East Preston confirmed the East Sussex sides credentials and makes things at the top look increasingly tight.

Report written by Trevor Wallis

Chichester Team: Mitchell, Fennymore, Smith, Hitchman, Jones, Leigh, Stephens (Tipper), Thomas, Murfin N., Laidlaw, Cole (Murfin S.)
Subs: Tipper and Murfin S. (both used), Belal (not used)
Scorers: Fennymore, Smith
Attendance: 61