Ebbsfleet United climbed to fourth in Vanarama Conference South after a convincing 3-0 win at Farnborough on Saturday afternoon.

After a cagey start, Billy Bricknell glanced Fleet ahead after getting a faint touch to a free-kick floated in by skipper Daryl McMahon.

Anthony Cook went close to a second with a header from close-range, saved by keeper Grant Smith, after a free-kick routine straight off the training ground.

Anthony Acheampong saw another header cleared off the line as Ebbsfleet penned Boro back in their own half, with McMahon’s set-pieces causing havoc.

It was predictable, perhaps, that another McMahon free-kick doubled the Fleet's lead. McMahon's low drive from just outside the area took a deflection which left Smith flat-footed.

After the break, Farnborough did grow into the game and goalkeeper Brandon Hall was called upon to make his first save just before the hour, tipping a low shot around the post. However, McMahon sent another free-kick narrowly over the bar at the other end.

Dean Rance eventually added a third for Fleet a little over 20 minutes from time. The midfielder hooked the ball into the bottom corner for his first goal of the season after fine approach play from Joe Howe and Matt Johnson down the right.

There were further half-chances for Charlie Sheringham and substitute Matty Godden, who lashed over after a nice touch from Acheampong - but the visitors couldn't add to their tally.

Steve Brown’s side are now just two points off the top with a game in hand.

They host Eastbourne Borough at The PHB Stadium on Tuesday night.