ROB Small praised his side’s character as Bowers & Pitsea claimed a 3-2 win over fellow high-flyers Coggeshall Town.

While Callum Leahy gave Isthmian North table-toppers Bowers an early lead, Coggeshall frontman Nnamdi Nwachuku and Lewis Manor, Bowers’ all-time leading goalscorer, exchanged second half goals.

Manor’s brace allowed Bowers to seal the win and boss Small was pleased to see his side reach 50 points for the season.

“That was the first time we have beaten a side in the top five this season,” said Small.

“We have picked up draws but not beaten anyone when perhaps we deserved more from some of them.

“We needed to get that big win and the players showed great character to win the game after being pegged back twice.

“Our first goal for the season was to reach 50 points and we have done that now.”

Leahy headed Bowers in front early on, but Nwachuku levelled matters six minutes after the break.

Manor restored the hosts’ advantage only for Nwachuku to equalise again.

But Bowers were not to be denied victory as Manor powered home to complete his brace and the scoring.

Bowers & Pitsea: Wilton, Sammons, Stephen, Stokes, Clark, Leahy, Monville (Thomas 90), Sartain, Manor, Knight (Cornhill 89), Warner (Dicks 84)