A late second half goal saw Takeley lose 1-0 away to Essex Senior League Premier Division high-fliers Clapton on Tuesday night.

Substitute Warren Hugues Mfula grabbed the only goal of the game at the Old Spotted Dog Stadium to send his side joint top of the table with Bowers & Pitsea.

Duncan Easley’s Takeley side are 17th in the standings after seven games.

This Saturday Takeley host Spartan South Midlands League Premier Division side Hoddesdon Town at Station Road in the FA Vase second round qualifying, kick-off 3pm.