Phoenix Sports finally claimed a crucial first league win of the season in a hard-fought 3-2 victory against fellow strugglers Steyning Town on Saturday.

Darren Anslow made three changes to the side that defeated Cray Wanderers on Tuesday night, with Taite Holtam and Jeff Duah-Kessie returning, while new signing Jack Turner made his debut at center-back.

It was a cagey opening, with both teams having half-chances, before the game burst into life in the 17th minute.

Duah-Kessie got in behind the Steyning back line, breaking down the left to fire in a cross that found Richard Pingling seven yards from goal. The striker controlled well and calmly slotted home to give Phoenix a much-needed early lead.

The lead, however, only lasted seven minutes.

A tangle of legs in the box involving Yannick Kissi led to a Steyning penalty, and captain Jack Barnes stepped up to slot the ball down the middle and level the score.

Just four minutes later, Steyning turned the game on its head as Harry Shooman easily headed home from a corner, leaving Phoenix trailing 2-1.

The first-half drama was far from over though. Phoenix rallied, and in the 31st minute, Deshane Dalling powered through a Steyning defender, levelling the score with a half-volley from a tight angle following a deep Pingling cross.

With momentum back on Phoenix's side, Duah-Kessie was brought down in the box just before halftime, earning a penalty. After a tense pause, Pingling stepped up and held his nerve, giving Phoenix a 3-2 lead despite a strong hand from the Steyning keeper.

In the second half, Phoenix pressed for a cushion, with Kiye Martin’s curling effort striking the post in the 60th minute, and Duah-Kessie forcing a save shortly after.

Though a potential fourth goal from Jones was ruled offside, Phoenix held firm thanks to a pair of late, spectacular saves from Holtam, who first clawed out a free-kick heading for the top corner, then made a crucial close-range block with seconds remaining.

As the final whistle blew, Phoenix celebrated a vital 3-2 win, with everyone of a Phoenix persuasion hoping it will kick-start their season.