BOWERS & Pitsea’s hopes of avoiding relegation from the Isthmian Premier League were hit hard by a 3-2 defeat at Billericay Town on Monday.

Billericay raced into a three goal lead at New Lodge with Montel Agyemang, Toby Stevenson and Kareem Isiaka all on target.

However, goals from Brandon Aviero and Soloman Addy got Bowers back into the game but they were unable to get back level and are now six points from safety with just two games to go.

Billericay remain 12th in the standings but at the top of the table third placed Canvey Island saw their crunch clash at home to fourth placed Aveley postponed due to a waterlogged pitch.

In Isthmian North, table-topping Hashtag United now need just one more point to mathematically make sure of the title after beating Witham 4-1.

Pedro Carvalho, Thomas Anderson, Lewis Watson and Jermaine Francis were all on target for Tags.

East Thurrock dropped to 11th after losing 1-0 to Grays Athletic while Basildon United, who are 14th, drew 2-2 at New Salamis, thanks to goals from Shane Temple and Jedd Smith who scored late on.

Second from bottom Great Wakering Rovers lost 2-0 at Heybridge Swifts while Hullbridge Sports, who are bottom, lost 2-1 at home to Maldon & Tiptree.