BRIDPORT took an early lead before ultimately falling to a 3-1 defeat against South West Peninsula Premier East leaders Ivybridge Town.

In a battle of the league’s top two at kick-off, Bees took the lead through Brad Rowe, but were pegged back as Ivybridge continued their march towards the title.

Bridport’s night got off to a nightmare start, forced into a substitution after just three minutes with Darren Lock forced off due to an ankle injury.

Bees defence withstood some early pressure, before on 24 minutes Rowe converted a cross to the back post.

Fred Parsons came close to doubling the tally, before Ivybridge levelled on the counter attack soon after, Connor Rush on target.

The scores were level at the break, where boss Chris Herbst made a change, introducing James Cox.

But the visitors got their noses in front with two goals in quick succession from Dane Hewings and Chris Wright, moments after Bridport had a penalty shout waved away.

Devon-based Ivybridge have now won 22 of their 25 league matches this season, and are 24 points clear of the chasing pack. Bridport’s defeat, coupled with victory for Crediton United, saw Herbst’s men slip to third in the table on goal difference, ahead of a trip to Elburton Villa this Saturday.

Bees: Scadding, Lock (Gall, 3), Leader, King, Brook, Daniels, Childs (T Diaz, 77), Parsons, Gape (Cox, h-t), Rowe, Weedon.

Unused subs: A Diaz, Kamara.