Crawley ran out 3-1 winners with a gritty second half performance when they defended manfully to protect injured keeper Mark Bower who was a passenger for the last 20 minutes.

Kicking up the slope Crawley had the better of the opening chances and they took the lead after 24 minutes. Dan Blackman played in Isiah Brown-Smith who crossed from the right to set up Taylort Rhiney. Rhiney's shot was kept out by Johnathan O'Sullivan who pushed the ball onto the post and Luke Andrews followed up to convert off the keeper to make it 0-1.

The hosts rallied and should have done better with chances falling to Jack Taylor and Adam Thomas who both missed the target. This season Crawley have conceded goals close to the break but this time it was the Maroons turn to score again in added time. Dan Blackman whipped in a free kick from the right and Ehizosie Oifoh turned the ball in to make it 0-2 at the break.

The hosts dominated in the second half as they looked to get a foothold in the game. Simeon Weekes and Ben Fraser both had efforts saved by Blower before Heath reduced the arrears after 66 minutes when skipper James Essex headed home a free kick to make it 1-2.

With 20 minutes to go Crawley's Mark Blower was injured when he was clattered after punching the ball to safety. He bravely carried on and Heath sensed this was their chance to win the game. Crawley introduced Wesley Iroegibu whose pace was an outlet on the left.

Kane Guy was then put through to face a hobbling Blower but he lobbed the ball over the bar. Cue Wesley who made a terrific run down the left and crossed for Jake Tabor to ram the ball home to make it 1-3 after 83 minutes. Wesley had another fine run shortly after but he shot over when Tabor was free in the middle.

The Maroons weathered a late onslaught from Heath. A chance was cleared off the line by Kieran Floyd and Blower managed to keep out an effort by Guy and it finished 1-3 to the Maroons.

Crawley Green Reserves drew 3-3 with AFC Oakley with goals from Kieran Malone and a brace from Timitayo Akerele.

Next week Crawley entertain Harefield United on Tuesday and next Saturday host table topping Leighton Town.Next Saturday the Reserves travel to Elstow Abbey.