Blue Square Premier: Grays Athletic debutant Wesley Thomas secured the troubled club’s first away points of the season in a 1-0 victory at York City.

Thomas, signed on loan from Dagenham and Redbridge, netted on 26 minutes to inflict defeat on Martin Foyle in his first home match as York manager.

The victory came after 10 defeats out of 10 on the road for Grays in the Blue Square Premier.

Grays coach Gary Phillips said: “It wasn’t pretty but it got us those valuable three points.

“The players stuck at it in difficult conditions. Wes has always had that reputation for getting valuable goals and that was gold-dust today.”

Jon Ashton, who played a pivotal role in the Atholtic defence, added: “I think the whole back line played very well in containing them.

“I have felt good in training and it was good to be back in defence. The three points were vital and confidence and morale has been boosted.”

Craig Farrell missed a brace of great chances for York in the first half.

Former Exeter striker Farrell saw his first opportunity headed off the line by Fabian Wilnis on 10 minutes.

Simon Russell then sent Farrell clear on 23 minutes. This time, the 25-year-old forward opted to round keeper David Button but his touch took him too wide and he could not find the gaping net.

Three minutes later, Grays broke the deadlock when Mark Robinson lost possession on the edge of his own penalty box.

Stuart Thurgood crossed to the far post, where Jamie Slabber made a hash of his finish only for the ball to fall for Thomas, who found the roof of the net from close range.

Other results: Crawley Town 4 Altrincham 0, Eastbourne Borough 4 Northwich 1, Ebbsfleet United 1 Weymouth 0, Forest Green 2 Burton Albion 3, Histon 1 Woking 0, Kidderminster 3 Salisbury 2, Lewes 0 Stevenage 2, Rushden & Diamonds 1 Barrow 1, Torquay 0 Cambridge Utd 0, Wrexham 2 Kettering 1.