Just how important Tom Wraight’s 85th minute goal against AFC Hornchurch could be for Witham Town may not become apparent until the end of the season, but it certainly looks crucial with 11 games to go.

The Ryman League premier division clash at the Village Glass Stadium was so much more than just a meeting of Essex rivals, with both looking for three points to help them in their respective bids to get clear of the relegation scrap.

Both knew that a defeat had to be avoided at all costs and it looked as though both may have achieved that heading into the closing minutes.

However, it was the ten men of Witham who were celebrating at the end as Wraight slammed home a winner to deliver some much-needed relief.

Witham headed into the game on the back of back-to-back losses against Hendon in the previous week, but were handed an early boost with a goal from Danny Emmanuel.

Having seen Jamie Guy’s initial effort hit the post in the 16th minute, Emmanuel was on hand to put the loose ball into the net for a half-time lead.

They held that advantage until the 73rd minute when the hosts were struck by a double blow.

Paul King fouled Hornchurch’s George Purcell and the Town skipper was sent off to leave them a man short for the remaining 17 minutes.

The referee also pointed to the penalty spot and Purcell scored to pull the Urchins level.

With an extra man, Hornchurch pressed for a winner and it looked as if they may get it, but Witham broke with five minutes remaining and Wraight fired home for a vital goal.

Hornchurch threw everything at Witham in the final few minutes as they frantically searched for a way back, but Town held firm for three points that kept them clear of the drop zone and distanced them from one of their relegation rivals.