Brighton snatched victory from the jaws of defeat to take second place in the Division One of the British League and secure a berth in the Premiership play-offs in May.

Starting the match in second place, level on points and sets averages with Devon based Woolwell, and four points behind runaway leaders Urban Progress, Brighton put themselves in strong contention for second place with a fine 6-2 victory over Woolwell.

England No. 82 Dov Katz saved a match point before beating James Whiteman in the fifth set. England cadet No. 1 Zak Zilesnick brushed aside Mike Short 3-1.

Brighton drew 4-4 against York Gardens but valiantly lost against Greenhouse Progress and leaders Urban Progress.

Katz said: “The standard in the division was strong. We fought extremely hard to the very end and, although it was mightily close, we got our just reward. A victory there will mean playing in the finest division in this country which would be a dream come true.”