Clarke rose highest to power a header home at the start of the second half after strike partner Liam Baitup had seen a rasping drive turned behind for a corner by Pagham ‘keeper James Binfield.
In terms of team selection, Simon Rowland made three changes to the side that defeated Hailsham Town in the Emirates FA Cup the previous weekend, with Peter Featherstone, Aaron Capon and Zak Dove absent, meaning returns for Dave Smart and Toby Clifford while Callum Dove made his debut in central midfield.
On a blisteringly hot day at The Oval, Baitup saw an early effort palmed away by Binfield but that was to be the sum of United’s attempts on goal in the opening 45 minutes as Pagham took a hold on the contest.
Callum Christie had to be alert to pull off two smart saves as Pagham attacked with real intent and vigour, looking to spread to the ball wide at the earliest opportunity.
United were lucky not to a goal down inside the opening 25 minutes after Christie produced a smart save low down from a free kick just outside of the penalty area before Dan Simmonds was quickest to the rebound but the Pagham striker fired his effort over the bar from close range.
Soon after, Pagham were ahead as Simmonds managed to get in behind Ryan Cooper and powerfully head in a deep cross past Christie.
Whatever was said in the United dressing room at half time clearly invigorated the side, with Seb Saunders attacking the Pagham defence with pace and power which ultimately led to the United equaliser as his perseverance led to the cross that saw Baitup’s effort saved before Clarke headed home from the ensuing corner.
United showed a marked improvement from their first half showing, with the defensive line coping admirably with the Pagham attack which had looked likely to run riot at stages in the opening period of play.
Overall, United were worthy of their point after their second half showing, but a first league win still eludes Simon Rowland’s men.