A wonder goal from Yoni Sidi helped England FC maintain their 100 per cent record as they edged past Jerusalem in the battle between last season's top two finishers.

The meeting in Modiin saw England were looking to protect an perfect record against a Jerusalem side starting to find form at the right time.

Jerusalem were well marshalled by Dan Kosky and league veteran Danny Newman who were both outstanding at keeping the England team to little more than half chances and long shots in the first half.

The trend continued into the early stages of the second half and Jerusalem smelt blood and pushed up looking for a goal on the counter but wary not to leave it too open at the back.

As England looked to get the breakthrough Sidi put through Jonny Binke who shot at the keeper, and then a few minutes later Josh Portnoi played in Yarden Bar Ness who was also denied.

The deadlock was finally broken in the 82nd minute when Sidi rifled in a free kick from 35 yards out into the top corner.

Jerusalem were to have one more chance when David Moccatta found himself free in the six-yard box but could only header over the bar.

England were able to hold out in arguably their toughest game of the season. A fifth straight victory saw them condemn Jerusalem to fifth spot in the JC Olim League table.

Jerusalem Manager Richard Pater said "'Credit to both teams, we are of course disappointed not to have taken at least a point. We hope to have another opportunity this season.'

Elswhere, Ashdod travelled an hour up to Raanana for a second versus third-place clash

An exciting game saw the French boys of Ashdod continue their league debut march and take the game 7-4, putting them second, just three points off England.

Next weekend Modiin host Jaffa in a mid-table clash, with just one point separating the teams.