Ashford men’s 1st team’s relegation fears in the South Premier League second division intensified after they lost 2-1 at home to Henley on Saturday.

It was their sixth match without a win, after they dominated the match but missed a whole series of chances.

In the first half Rob Playford and Sam Handley struck the woodwork and Ashford always looked dangerous going forward, only to find themselves 2-0 down at the break.

Henley, who are just above Ashford in the table, had nothing to offer in the second half and, after Michael Wood had pulled one back early in the second half, they held on to their lead by the skin of their teeth for the best part of 50 minutes.

Will Spain missed an open goal before being sent off for a trip, while Handley continued to cause Henley problems but it wasn’t to be for the home side, who now face a crucial game this Saturday with fellow strugglers Lewes.

Defeat could mean a quick return to the Kent/Sussex Regional League, which Ashford won so convincingly last season.