CANVEY Island moved to within three points of the Isthmian North play-off places after a 7-1 mauling of Witham Town.

Jason Hallett put the Gulls ahead before Scott Kemp hit back less than 60 seconds later.

But Mark Bentley’s Canvey triumphed thanks to grabbed six unanswered goals after the interval.

Hallett completed his hat-trick with two further goals, while debutant Ernest Okoh – who joined following his departure from neighbours Basildon United last week – Tobi Joseph, James White and Ryan Melaugh were also on target.

Also in the Isthmian North, Hullbridge Sports were made to settle for a 3-3 draw against high-flyers Bury Town despite boasting a two-goal lead on two occasions.

Joe Wright netted twice in the opening nine minutes to put Sports firmly in control at the Ryan’s Heating Stadium, but Ollie Hughes hit back for the visitors.

Kieran Bishop restored Hullbridge’s two-goal lead on the stroke of half-time by grabbing his first goal for the club.

However, a Cemal Ramadan penalty and Cruise Nyadzayo effort allowed Bury to seal a point.

Rob Small's Bowers & Pitsea locked horns with Isthmian Premier League strugglers Corinthian-Casuals for the second time in three days.

Bowers won the initial clash 1-0 thanks to Brad Warner bagging the only goal.

But the tables were turned at the Len Salmon Stadium as Benjamin Checklit and Gabriel Odunaike netted in a 2-0 Corinthian-Casuals victory.

East Thurrock United were knocked out of the Isthmian League Cup by Cheshunt due to suffering a 4-3 penalty shoot-out defeat after the tie had finished all-square at 2-2.

Frankie Merrifield gave Rocks an 18th minute lead but Cheshunt hit back through Jamie Reynolds before former Southend United striker Norman Wabo turned the contest on its head.

Darren Foxley restored parity to ensure the tie would go to penalties, where Cheshunt had more joy than their hosts.

In the Isthmian North, Basildon United lost 3-0 to Soham Town Rangers.

Goals from Jordan Patrick and Toby Andrews handed Soham a two-goal lead inside the opening 26 minutes, giving the Bees a mountain to climb in Alex Salmon's first match in charge.

Soham wrapped up the three points through Sam Mulready.

Great Wakering Rovers suffered a 3-1 friendly reverse against National League South side Chelmsford City.

Kojo Apenteng scored Wakering’s only goal at Burroughs Park.