Clapton CFC suffered a frustrating defeat on the road as Hullbridge Sports overturned a half-time deficit.

After winning their first game at Step 4 in midweek, CFC started the match with confidence. Julian Austin went close early on, volleying a side-footed effort just over the crossbar after neat build-up play, as the visitors earned a quick succession of corners.

The pressure eventually paid off in the 27th minute with a moment of fortune. A defensive mix-up saw a clearance ricochet off Andre Odeku and fly straight into the back of the net for his second goal in successive games.

Clapton were looking comfortable despite playing an in-form side, but the turning point came in the 62nd minute. A free-kick evaded everyone but the referee awarded Hullbridge a penalty over a tussle on the edge of the box. Nick Dembelle stepped up and dispatched the spot-kick to level the score.

The momentum was now with Hullbridge who completed the comeback in the 76th minute when skipper Jack Hayes rose highest to head home from a corner.

CCFC threw everything forward in the closing stages, but Hullbridge held firm.

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