BRIGHTLINGSEA REGENT suffered another 3-2 defeat, this time at the hands of Bostik League promotion-chasers Folkestone Invicta.

The R's lost by the odd goal in five at home to Dorking Wanderers last weekend and lightning struck twice down on the Kent coast.

Ronnie Dolan put the hosts ahead on the stroke of half-time and Joseph Taylor made it two on 57 minutes.

Top-scorer Billy Hunt pulled one back in the latter stages before Ian Draycott gave his side breathing space in the 88th minute.

Jake Turner then curled home a brilliant free-kick to reduce the arrears again, but it came too late to make a difference.

Tom Rothery's Regent had been due to host premier division leaders Billericay Town at the Taydal Stadium on Tuesday.

However, a new date will have to be found for the game because Billericay now have an FA Trophy replay at home to Harrogate Town, after the sides drew 2-2 on Saturday.

In division north, MALDON AND TIPTREE were 3-1 winners at home to Soham Town Rangers.

Kieran Bailey and Oluwole Akinsanya netted either side of the break for the promotion-chasing Jammers.

Lee Chaffey pulled one back but Rhys Henry added a late third for Kevin Horlock’s men.

HEYBRIDGE SWIFTS’ poor run continued as they lost 2-1 at Dereham Town.

Joe Gardner scored their goal but it proved only a consolation, after earlier efforts from the hosts’ Rhys Logan and Matthew Castellan.

WITHAM TOWN shared the spoils with hosts Cheshunt, thanks to an equalising goal from Correy Davidson.

Jason Hallett had put the hosts ahead.

Witham have a midweek match at Bury Town while Heybridge also have a Tuesday night fixture, at home to Norwich United.