In front of a crowd of 103 at their newly revamped ground, the home side surrendered a two-goal advantage before finding three more goals to settle an entertaining contest. Alfie Edmeads scored twice, while Theo Vincent played a key part in the home side’s attacking work.
Saltdean started the evening in 13th following a 1–0 victory over Loxwood at the weekend, secured by Harry Funnell’s goal. Shoreham arrived second from bottom, hoping to pick up a result that would help turn their season around following the departure of Connor Cox as manager last week.
The Mussels made a lively start and had their best opening of the first ten minutes when Alessandro took on his defender, created some space and put his effort wide.
Saltdean gradually grew into the game. Around the 25-minute mark, Vincent showed neat footwork before trying his luck, although the Shoreham goalkeeper dealt comfortably with the effort.
Shoreham also threatened from a set piece. Ashton Stevens delivered a free kick to Harry Brand, but his volley from the edge of the box flew over the bar.
The breakthrough came through Vincent’s work down the flank. He beat his man and cut the ball back to Luke Burbidge, who smashed his finish into the bottom corner.
Vincent then helped create the second in similar fashion. Once again getting past his defender, he played the ball across the box for Alfie Marchant to place his finish into the bottom corner.
Shoreham had created chances before the break, but their task was now to turn those openings into goals while keeping Saltdean’s attack quiet.
They made an immediate impression after the restart. A fine touch and volley from around 20 yards struck the inside of the post and flew into the net, bringing the visitors back into the contest.
The equaliser followed. Ramon Santos sent a ball out wide to captain Luca Slaney, whose shot was saved onto the bar. Tom Ross reacted to the rebound to make it 2– 2.
Saltdean responded through Edmeads. He linked up with Burbidge on the edge of the box, ran through and slotted past the goalkeeper to restore the hosts’ advantage.
During a frantic spell, Charlie Yeates crossed from the top of the box for Vincent to head into an open net. Edmeads then struck from 25 yards to complete the scoring.
Saltdean climb to 11th, while Shoreham drop to the bottom.