Paulton Rovers 2 (Hulbert 59, 73)

Abingdon Utd 0

Abingdon United put in a flat performance as they slipped to defeat in Division 1 South & West on Saturday.

The game could have had a different outlook had Abingdon had the rub of the green early on.

They were denied a goal in the fifth minute.

Anaclet Odhiambo slid a ball through to Michaes Herbert, who drove home from ten yards.

But the referee had already given a late decision for a foul on Odhiambo instead of playing an advantage, and so the chance was ruled out in favour of a free-kick.

Despite not being at their best, Abingdon matched the home side, and the teams were level at half-time.

But in a blustery wind, Abingdon could not take any advantage of the elements in the second period.

They fell to two similar strikes from Paulton’s quick and tricky winger Ricky Hulbert.

He twice got through Abingdon’s defence to drive efforts past Abingdon keeper Alan Foster with ease.

Abingdon, who are now destined for a mid-table finish, will now need to pick themselves up again.

They have tough matches against promotion-chasing Thatcham Town and local rivals Didcot Town in the next seven days.

Abingdon Utd: Foster, Burton, Peirson, Franklin, Weedon (McCalmon 75), Austin, Herbert, Biddle, Janes, Odhiambo (Beechers 70), Holden (Haysham 85). Sub not used: Warrell.

Attendance: 120.