A BRACE from veteran striker Scott Forbes proved to much for John Doyle’s improving Bowers & Pitsea side as they went down 3-1 at Takeley on Saturday.

Former Southend United forward Forbes opened his account from the penalty spot on 14 minutes after George Woodward was adjudged to have brought down Anton Collins.

Bowers took control after the restart and Alfie Hilton burst into the box only to be sent tumbling, but the referee amazed everyone in the ground by waving play on.

Joe Pattison’s 70th-minute shot was well blocked but from the clearance Collins’ well-placed header made it 2-0.

Forbes added a third in the 85th minute before Carl Reed scored Bowers’ consolation goal from the spot after Matthew Thomas was brought down.

SOUTHEND MANOR’S title hopes were dealt another blow as they lost 1-0 at home to Barkingside, but HULLBRIDGE SPORTS enjoyed a 2-1 win against Sporting Bengal United.

Tom Ranger and Sam Taylor scored Sports’ goals.