PAUL Gulliver netted on his Downton return but there was no sweet ending for him as the beleaguered club fell to a 3-1 home defeat to promotion-chasers Alresford Town.

Gulliver, who returned to the club from neighbours Laverstock & Ford, was on target in the second half but the damage had already been done.

Mike McEnery gave the visitors the lead inside 17 minutes and their rapid start resulted in a second two minutes later.

This time Dominic Cope produced a daring chip over Robins keeper Charles Aldridge, which ended in the back of the net.

Downton netted before the interval through Declan McGregor but it was ruled out for offside.

Three minutes after the interval the hosts had it all to do when the Magpies added a third, which came in controversial circumstances at Wick Lane.

Stuart Green’s pass fell to Warren Bentley, in a clear offside position but not interfering with play, and Andrew Mott skipped through and slotted into the net after rounding past Aldridge.

Downton felt hard done by but got a consolation after Danny Western had previously struck the woodwork twice.

Gulliver took advantage of Alresford not clearing their lines and swept the ball past Jason Collins for Downton’s consolation.

“Sloppy goals cost us,” admitted Downton boss Jeff Softley.

“It was a tough game but credit to Alresford they are a strong side. We haven’t had much luck this season as we’ve lost a few players.

“Hopefully we can turn things around and get a little bit of luck, which is what we need.”

LAVERSTOCK & Ford suffered a three nil defeat to tabletopping Andover Town on Saturday.

CALLUM Coker gave Amesbury the lead at Bonnymead but their afternoon ended in tatters after conceding two second half penalties to give United Services Portsmouth a 2- 1 win.