BOWERS & Pitsea’s title dream is over as they lost their first match in more than five months to go down against Haringey Borough.

Rob Small’s side had been on an incredible run since Saturday, November 8 in a run that stretched 27 games, to give themselves an outside chance of winning the Essex Senior League for the first time in their history.

But Saturday’s 3-2 defeat ensured Haringey took the league crown and left Bowers fighting for second place.

It could have been so different as top scorer Lewis Manor had twice given the visitors the lead at Haringey.

But two late strikes meant it would be the hosts who were victorious.

With three games to go, three wins would see Small’s men claim second and in with an outside chance of promotion.

Although there are only 12 promotion places up for grabs in the 14 step five leagues, some teams are not expected to fulfill the ground grading requirements to compete at a higher level, opening the door for second-placed teams based on a points per game ratio.

Bowers already have the required grading so will fight tooth and nail for the remaining nine points, potentially ending the season on 92 points.

Hullbridge Sports drew 1-1 with Ilford as they secured a fourth placed finish.

Sports went ahead after only eight minutes, and it came in fortuitous circumstances as the ball came off the back of the home goalkeeper and bounced into the net.

20 minutes after the break it was level and Mark Bliss’ men were unable to grab the lead again.

But it is a season to remember for Sports, having secured their highest ever league finish in the Essex Senior League.

Basildon United claimed a point against Tower Hamlets – to consolidate their 13th-placed position.

The Bees can still end the season a place higher in the division, with two games to go.

It was another day to forget for Southend Manor, as they were beaten 4-2 by Eton Manor in a battle of the sides at the bottom.