Bognor Regis Town 3-1 Billericay Town

From Nyewood Lane

Ryman Premier League

 

BILLERICAY Town slumped to their third defeat in four matches following a 3-1 reverse at Bognor Regis.

Craig Edwards’ Town were in desperate need of the points after a difficult couple of weeks and things got off to the best possible start when Tom Derry scored after just three minutes.

But they were pegged back, and head into the derby with Canvey today requiring a response.

Bognor had lost back-to-back home games, including a 5-0 thrashing against Tonbridge Angels, and they got off to a dreadful start.

Teddy Nesbitt burst down the left and his fine cross was met by Derry who buried his header with aplomb.

Town continued to press, with Bognor’s first chance coming when Ollie Pearce sent an effort narrowly wide of Jack Giddens’ post.

Bognor did level the match with 20 minutes on the clock and it was Pearce again causing problems. His shot was kept out but Stuart Green was on hand to net from the follow-up.

And five minutes later the score-line had been turned on its head.

Alex Parsons’ low centre was diverted past his own goalkeeper by the unfortunate Joe Ellul.

Jason Prior had the ball in the net again on the half-hour mark, only for the referee to call a foul on Giddens, who had to be at his best to deny Dan Beck soon after.

The third goal came 10 minutes into the second-half, with Parsons again involved. He crossed for Prior and he headed home.

Loui Hazlewood came close to reducing the deficit before they missed a golden chance from the penalty spot.

Shane Stamp was fouled in the box but Onome Sodje saw his effort saved by Grant Smith.

Bognor hit the post in the closing stages to claim a deserved win.