Heybridge Swifts lost out against Barkingside despite a late fightback.

Swifts fell to a Ryman League division one north 2-1 defeat at Cricklefield on Monday night.

Barkingside had the best of the early chances as Swifts were forced to clear off the goal-line.

Joe Pearman then went close for Swifts but it was the home side that broke the deadlock.

A free-kick from the left found an unmarked Joe Ellul and his good header put Barkingside 1-0 up on 20 minutes.

Greg Akpele almost doubled Barkingside’s lead but Danny Sambridge made a fine save to keep him out and then the rebound was headed off the line.

After the break, an early free-kick to the far post saw Swifts Jack West shoot wide.

Then Barkingside broke and Calvin Poku was through on goal but missed his opportunity, shooting straight at Sambridge.

Barkingside then doubled their advantage when Akpele scored on 73 minutes with a low shot from 25 yards.

Swifts, however, gave themselves a chance when they pulled a goal back in injury-time when Aaron Gayle scored with a long-range effort.

But it wasn’t enough as Barkingside hauled themselves out of the bottom three with the win.