Ledbury Town 2

Heath Hayes 3

LEDBURY showed promise when they took the lead in the first period but slipped to their eighth West Midlands League Premier Division defeat of the season with a disappointing second-half display.

The hosts dominated the opening exchanges with Mark Brookes going close and Gareth Davis seeing his well struck shot palmed away by the visiting goalkeeper. They kept up the pressure and duly took a 32nd-minute lead when full-back Lee Clueit made a run down the right before crossing for Stuart Smith to net with a powerful header.

Heath Hayes upped the tempo after the break with their strong, powerful strikers hustling and bustling the home back four. In the 55th minute Andrew Reed weaved his way into the home box only to be up-ended by Chris Palmer, striker Richard Hewitt thumping home the spot kick to put the visitors back on terms.

Lifted by this equaliser Heath Hayes took the lead when Reed tapped home from close range, and went further ahead when Andrew Tucks completed a fine run with a crisp drive.

Although Robbie Colwell blasted home a neat flick from substitute Sean McKeon the visitors held on for a deserved win.

l Management duo Ian Ford and Kevin Barry have been relieved of their duties and club physiotherapist Ian Colwell has taken temporary charge of team affairs.

Ledbury, who have won only two of their last eight league games, are currently lying fourth in the West Midlands League Premier Division, and this season made their best ever showing in the prestigious FA Vase before losing a fourth-round tie at Didcot Town.