SOUTHEND Manor were beaten 2-1 by Takeley as their bid to secure a top four finish was blunted.

Manor fell behind after five minutes and trailed at half-time.

And things got worse when they doubled their advantage.

Vinny Murphy reduced arrears but it wasn't to be.

And manager Stuart Marshall was left frustrated following the result.

“The boys didn’t deserve that,” he said. “I like to think I give honest comments after the game but stupid mistakes cost us.

"Takeley should have been down to nine men but we have to go again next week.”

Hullbridge Sports suffered a frustrating 1-1 draw against London Bari.

Rob Hodgson’s team had taken a 32nd minute lead when Aaron Hunwicks crossed for Luca Frankis to score.

But five minutes into the second period Bari levelled.

Sports felt they were denied a clear penalty on the hour mark, with teenager Harry Hart coming close.

The striker’s header was cleared off the goal line and they couldn’t find the winner.

Basildon United didn’t play this weekend.