HULLBRIDGE Sports were made to rue missed chances as they suffered a 2-1 defeat to Redbridge.

Darren Manning’s side were looking to build on their 6-1 thumping of Sawbridgeworth Town and boost their hopes of gaining promotion from the Essex Senior League.

But Redbridge, who made the trip to the Ryan’s Heating Stadium with just five wins from 22 outings, scored two quickfire goals to put Sports on the back foot.

Daniel Gilchrist grabbed the opener before Connor Okus doubled the visitors’ advantage four minutes later.

Sports’ Michael Salako struck the post between the two goals, but Hullbridge halved the deficit as Adebola Sotoyinbo scored from the penalty spot six minutes before the break.

However, the hosts could not complete the comeback and were condemned to their third defeat of the campaign.

Meanwhile, Southend Manor claimed a point as they drew 1-1 with West Essex.

Manor moved into a half-time lead, but the hosts levelled matters to collect a share of the spoils.