STEVE Cawley scored the only goal of the game as Concord Rangers secured their first win of the season against Hemel Hempstead Town.

The club's new captain scored five minutes after half-time to settle a tight National League South contest.

The hosts were put under pressure in the early exchanges, but a lightning counter-attack saw Concord almost draw first blood – Lewis Taaffe’s header almost beating Laurie Walker at his near post.

Kyron Farrell shot over the crossbar and Taaffe drew a full-stretch save from the goalkeeper as the hosts dominated.

Hemel's first attempt came from Jordan Parkes after 37 minutes but the best chance of the half came on the stroke of half-time - Billy Roast and Taaffe missing from close range.

Into the second-half, Hemel started the brighter and could have taken the lead inside the opening minutes – Charlie Sheringham halted by Concord keeper Louis Wells.

And Concord took advantage. On 50 minutes, a ball fell to Cawley inside the penalty area and he hammered low into the corner.

Jordan Cox shot wildly off target as Concord became more defensive but they held on for the points, as Phil Walsh sent their last attempt inches wide in injury-time.

East Thurrock United were 3-2 winners at Whitehawk to make it four points from two games.

Lewis Smith scored the opener a minute before half-time, the striker making space and sliding the ball into the net.

Sam Higgins doubled the advantage after half-time from the penalty spot having won the penalty himself.

But a rare mistake from stopper Lukas Lidakevicius allowed Whitehawk back into the match - Connor Tighe profiting.

The Hawks hit the post only for substitute Ben Marlow to hammer home a third with 15 minutes remaining. Tighe got another back but it was too late.