Harrow Borough virtually secured their Ryman Premier Division status after a convincing 3-1 win at East Thurrock United last night.

It did not take long for the visitors to open the scoring after just eight minutes. Steve Butterworth produced an incisive pass and Victor Osobu fired a low effort into the corner of the net.

East Thurrock enjoyed a decent spell and almost grabbed an equaliser but James Shea saved impressively at the feet of David Bryant.

The hosts were awarded a controversial penalty after 25 minutes when Adam Louth was adjudged to have fouled an opponent in the area.

Shea got his hands to Sam Higgins’ spot kick but was unable to keep the ball out of the net.

Dave Anderson’s side put this disappointment behind them as they regained the lead in the 29th minute.

Harold Odametey sent in a cross and Marc Charles-Smith turned the ball in at the far post.

Boro extended their advantage four minutes before the break when Jake Gilbert twisted and fired past goalkeeper David Hughes.

Anderson’s team were relatively comfortable in the second half and could have added another goal but Osobu fired wide of the target.

Boro’s 12th victory of the season has taken them up to 18th in the table and they are 14 points clear of third bottom Thamesmead Town.

The Reds were beaten 3-2 at Bognor Regis Town on Saturday.

Louth and Danny Leech found the net but Boro conceded an 81st minute James Crane goal which was the difference.

Boro return to action this weekend at Earlsmead when they host mid-table Grays Athletic.