BRIGHTLINGSEA REGENT signed off at North Road with a disappointing 2-1 defeat at home to Barkingside, in Ryman League division north on Saturday.

James Webster’s side had been chasing a top-five play-off spot, until recent weeks.

However, a difficult run of just one win in their previous six matches – and just two in their last nine - had seen the challenge fade.

They had also failed to score in their previous three matches, heading into Saturday’s encounter.

Regent did at least end that barren run, thanks to a 58th-minute opener from Jake Clowsley.

Ricky Griggs whipped in a cross from the right and the striker eluded the visitors’ defence to nod home.

Sadly, however, it was an advantage that only last two minutes as George Lataaya fired Barkingside level.

And the visitors, who started second from bottom and already relegated, added their second – an absolute screamer from distance – through Tyrone Scarlet in the 81st minute.

Brightlingsea will now look to end on a high in next weekend’s final match at Thamesmead Town.

Elsewhere, HEYBRIDGE SWIFTS made a dream start in their tricky match at play-off chasers AFC Hornchurch.

Jody Brown’s side went into the game sitting just three points above the drop zone but took a 29th-minute lead through Jordan Palmer.

However, Nathan Cooper levelled early in the second half and George Purcell’s penalty, just after the hour mark, put the hosts 2-1 ahead.

Swifts’ Jack Barham had a penalty saved by the Hornchurch keeper.

One consolation for Heybridge was that fellow strugglers Waltham Abbey lost 2-1 at Thurrock.

MALDON & TIPTREE and WITHAM TOWN had been due to meet at Park Drive.

However, a waterlogged pitch led to the game being called off on Saturday morning.

It has now been rearranged for Thursday night – 48 hours after Maldon’s home game against neighbours Heybridge.

Steve Ball’s side will head into the derby in confident mood, after suffering just one defeat in their last 11 matches.

Witham are now safe from relegation, as a result of Waltham Abbey's defeat.