CANVEY-based midfielder Tony Stokes scored as West Ham's second-string secured a 2-1 win over Derby County in their penultimate FA Premier Reserve League South fixture of the season at Bishop's Stortford.
The game also saw French winger Julien Faubert make a successful comeback from the calf injury that has ruled him out since March 1.
Stokes was fouled in The Rams penalty area before picking himself up to power home the Irons' opener after nine minutes.
Paris Simmons equalised for Derby on 27 minutes, but Junior Stanislas had the final say, converting a Jack Widdowson pass to score the winner seven minutes before half-time.
Victory leaves the Irons two points behind leaders Aston Villa with just one game remaining.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article