LYDNEY Town’s fight for Hellenic League Premier Division survival suffered a setback as they were beaten 3 0 by fellow strugglers Royal Wootton Bassett Town on Saturday.

In difficult conditions and driving rain, Lydney found themselves behind inside the opening ten minutes and were always chasing the game from there.

Despite periods of sustained pressure and several good chances, they were unable to turn possession into goals and were punished by clinical finishing at the other end.

The visitors remained competitive throughout the first half and created arguably the clearest openings.

Matt Green was denied when through on goal, while another promising move saw a rebound cleared off the line as Lydney pressed for an equaliser. Instead, a second goal just before the break proved a major blow, leaving Lydney with a mountain to climb at half time.

To their credit, Lydney responded positively after the interval and started the second half on the front foot.

Set pieces caused problems and Green came agonisingly close when his touch from an Ethan Vaughan free kick struck the post and rolled across the goal line before being cleared. It was a moment that summed up their afternoon.

Pushing forward in search of a lifeline, Lydney were caught late on the counter attack, conceding a third goal that effectively ended the contest and left the final scoreline harsher than the balance of play suggested.

The defeat comes at a key stage of the season, with Lydney still locked in a tight battle near the bottom of the table.

Speaking earlier in the week, manager Lee Smith stressed the importance of sticking together during the final run in, pointing to steady improvement, a strengthened squad and strong backing from the chairman and supporters.

Lydney will now look to turn encouraging performances into points as they try to pull clear of danger.