Macauley Bonne’s 16th goal of the season proved the difference as Leyton Orient claimed a 1-0 win over National League rivals AFC Fylde.

The forward struck from the penalty spot three minutes before the half-time interval to land the decisive blow of a keenly-contested encounter at Mill Farm.

Orient climb to 16th in the table by virtue of the win and are now six points clear of the relegation zone with 13 games remaining this term.

The early exchanges saw the home side enjoy more of the ball and they put Orient under pressure throughout the first 10 minutes.

A Lewis Montrose cross forced Dean Brill into action as he punched clear from a corner before Orient began to grow into the occasion.

Bonne went close to getting on the end of James Brophy’s cross and the loose ball broke to Craig Clay who saw his volley well blocked.

The link up play between Bonne and Brophy was causing problems for the Fylde defence and a low shot from the latter forced a good save as the O’s pushed for the opener.

They were rewarded for their attacking endeavours on the stroke of half-time when Dan Holman was brought down in the box.

Bonne stepped up and smashed his effort home from 12-yards to put Justin Edinburgh’s side ahead before the break.

Orient were caught cold at the start of the second half and Brill had to be alert to make a smart stop soon after the restart.

Josh Koroma nearly doubled the lead with a fine solo goal as he ran from inside his own half but was smothered by the onrushing Fylde keeper as he closed in on goal.

Fylde pushed hard for a leveller late on but some resolute defending, which was marshalled well by George Elokobi, saw the O’s over the line to secure an important three points.

Orient are back in league action on Tuesday night before facing Gateshead in the FA Trophy next Saturday.