Clinical finishing was the only real difference between two otherwise evenly matched teams as Worthing bowed out of this year’s FA Trophy at the hands of Dorking Wanderers.
Worthing recovered from going a goal down to eventually overcome a plucky Seaford Town, who more than played their part in what turned out to be an absorbing contest.
Goals from Sophie Humphrey, Hannah Hewlett and Shawna Harvey saw Worthing spring a surprise and knock Lewes DS out of the Sussex Women’s Cup.
Worthing’s long unbeaten run - stretching back to August - finally came to an end, despite taking an early lead through Ollie Pearce.
Headed goals from Aarran Racine and Joel Colbran sandwiched an Ollie Pearce penalty, as Worthing extended their lead at the top of the table to eight points.
Despite facing a team two divisions higher, Worthing were more than a match for Hounslow as they suffered the agony of an FA Cup exit on penalties.
Two in-form sides met in the FA Trophy at The Skyex Community Stadium but it was the visitors who turned in a dominant performance to seal a safe passage through to round two.
Harrison Male’s second-half penalty save helped Worthing to maintain their five point lead at the top of the table.
Worthing’s FA Youth Cup run finally came to an end but not before they’d given Charlton Athletic a stern test.