The Rocks were on their bogey ground where they had not performed well on previous visits this season.

Elmer took the lead on 15 minutes with a deft header from Berry following a tremendous through-ball from the ever-impressive Eardley.

The Rocks started to cause problems down the right with McCulloch forcing the Elmer goalkeeper Davis into a fine block save.

Two injuries forced the Rocks into changes and Elmer again got back on top and a near-carbon copy of their first goal made it 2-0, with Berry again finding the net.

A lapse in concentration by Elmer saw McCulloch make no mistake, rounding Davis and slotting in.

A further blow to Rocks saw Westbrook unable to start the second half but they started strongly, stirred by news Pagham Rangers, their rivals for the second spot in the division, were thumping WKB Rangers.

Rocks pressure continued and appeared to have paid off after 65 minutes as they were awarded a hotly-disputed penalty.

McCulloch struck a firm shot low to the keeper's left but the 6ft 5in frame of Davis got to it to push it away for a corner.

The Rocks then forced a succession of corners, all resolutely defended by the Elmer defence.

Elmer again started to dictate the play and another swift attacking move saw Berry one on one against the Rocks goalkeeper.

He completed his hat-trick to make it 3-1 on 72 minutes.

Elmer's manager, Colin Davis, replaced target man Henderson for his only appearance of the season, fulfilling his dream of playing competitive football in his 50s and in the same team as his son.