Combined Counties League

Premier Division

Epsom & Ewell 4

Bookham 1

BOOKHAM were largely the architects of their own downfall as they slipped to a disappointing defeat against title chasing Epsom by gifting the home side two goals.

After a bright opening 15 minutes by Epsom it seemed that Bookham had weathered the storm, however on 21 minutes Alex Mcgregor lost the ball carelessly in midfield and two passes later the ball was in the back of the Bookham net with Hayward finishing the incisive counter.

The setback rocked Bookham and they fell further behind on 34 minutes this time McLaughlin's free header at the far post had just enough pace to beat Aburn in the Bookham goal.

Epsom were seemingly well on top playing some delightful first time football, however Bookham always looked capable of hitting back with Jarman in particular looking to turn the home defence. Bookham's cause was not helped by the enforced absence of Billy Ramsey and Tim Moffatt who's combined creativity has provided the ammunition that has allowed the Meadowbank outfit to take some notable scalps this season.

With the half-time whistle arriving with no further score Bookham started the second half determined to take the game to their opponents.

They were rewarded on 51 minutes following a bad foul on Mcgregor on the right side of the Epsom penalty area. Mcgregor's in-swinging free-kick was bundled over the line by Stuart Padgett.

Bookham had their tails up now and had the home defence under all sorts of pressure, however Padgett went from hero to villain when he carelessly gifted the ball to the opposition, allowing Dale Marvell the easiest of chances.

With Bookham bringing on Tom Collins to play three up front they conceded another late goal on the break with Karl Hough rounding off a good days work for the home side.

With games coming up thick and fast Bookham need to rediscover the winning formula.

They have two home games starting on Saturday when they host a resurgent Bedfont side who are enjoying a great run of form.

It is hoped that manager Glyn Mandeville will have both Ramsey and Moffatt available for selection as they look to shake off niggling injuries. Kick-off at Meadowbank is 3pm.

Bookham: Aburn, Currie, Griffin (Van Gelder), Padgett, Dicks, Piercy (Collins), Gridley, Carnota, Woodward, Jarman, McGregor.