ROCKS' hopes of climbing out of the Ryman Premier League relegation zone took a big hit with this defeat at Rookery Hill.

Despite a brave performance, the home side were edged out by Mark Janney's 79th minute winner, which came just three minutes after Steve Wareham had given Rocks hope of at least a point.

That goal cancelled out Dean Green's 60th minute opener in a game in which Rocks played well but they lacked the cutting edge to finish off a number of chances.

Rocks dominated the first period and had it not been for three first class saves from Dale Brightley in the Hornchurch goal the visitors would have been struggling to get anything out of the game.

It was not until 19th minute that Hornchurch threatened to open their account when Green had his shot saved by Shane Gore, who then parried Harry Elmes' shot.

Brightley then pulled off a double stop to deny Dave Lee and Wareham.

Hornchurch were more positive after the break and Gore saved from Elmes before Green put Hornchurch in front.

East Thurrock never looked like a team in relegation trouble against one of the play-off favourites and equalised through Wareham.

But Janney got the points for the visitors.