A TOM Aldridge strike maintained Downton's unbeaten record since acting player/manager Ben Smith took over from predecessor Colin Hopkins.

Robins' caretaker boss was involved in the defence which kept a clean sheet in a 1-0 victory over ten-man East Cowes Victoria in Sydenhams Wessex Division One.

The decisive moment arrived five minutes before the interval when Dan Telfer went down the left wing and crossed for Ross Bentall, whose smart through ball found Aldridge and he slotted home from close-range.

Declan McGregor emerged from the bench late on as Robins looked to double their lead, especially when Shaun Prentice was hacked to the floor by Jake Younie, who was subsequently red-carded - but the scoreline stayed at 1-0.

"Another pleasing performance from every player," hailed Smith.

"The lads are playing with confidence again and its great to see and be part of."

Downton round off their campaign on Friday night at Fleet Spurs (7.45pm).

Victory at Kennels Lane will see the Robins leapfrog them in the final standings. It will be Smith's third and final game in charge, with Rae Hughes appointed on a permanent basis for the start of the 2016/17 term.

Smith added: "I'm looking to finish the campaign with another three points on Friday and hopefully end the season on a high."