Lowestoft Town did all they could to keep up the pressure on Ryman Premier Division leaders Whitehawk – although they made hard work of their injury-time 2-1 victory at nine-man Thurrock last night.

Matt Turpin was given a straight red card for a stamp on Town's Curtley Williams after just 15 minutes – in fact, the first half saw six minutes of added time after Stuart Ainsley made a swift trip to A&E after a clash of heads.

With the game goalless after the break, Town were given another boost after 53 minutes as Scott Curley conceded a penalty – earning his second booking to leave his side down to nine.

Lowestoft took full advantage, as Hakeem Araba's penalty broke the deadlock – the former Whitehawk striker's first goal for the club and perfect timing, given Jack Defty broke his leg in the 1-1 draw at Bury on Tuesday night.

But late drama saw Thurrock conjure up an equaliser with two minutes remaining through Daniel Jones, only for Lowestoft to restore their lead on the 90 as Josh Dawkin nabbed the winner.

Wealdstone's 3-1 defeat at Hampton & Richmond helped Town return to second by a point. Superior goal difference means three points from their last two games should win Whitehawk the title.