HAMWORTHY United’s efforts away at Paulton Rovers were in vain as they slipped to a 2-1 defeat in the Southern League Division One South.

Poole Town loanee Will Fletcher had given Hammers a 15th minute lead at Winterfield Road from the spot, but the hosts replied 10 minutes before the break through Kye Simpson.

An even second half followed, but Hamworthy were unable to find a response to Martin Lenihan’s free-kick midway through the final 45 minutes.

Hammers took an early lead after Sam Griffin was felled inside the box, allowing Fletcher to step up and convert the resultant penalty.

They looked to double their advantage, but could not find a way through, allowing their hosts back into the game.

A mix-up at the back saw Simpson tap home to restore parity.

There was an air of fortune for Paulton’s winner on 67 minutes, Lenihan’s long-range free kick colliding off the post and off of Kai Storr’s back to roll into the net.

Hammers huffed and puffed, but could not find an equaliser to take a point back home with them.

Defeat for Hammers leaves them 14th in the league table, slipping behind their opponents Paulton on goal difference.

Dan Cann’s men have four points from the first four league games.

Hammers: Storr, Pelham (Torniainen 90+5,) Eccott-Young, Taylor (Yang, 90+8), Wright, Rolls, Munn (Pickles, 84), Hodge, Fletcher, Nixon, Griffin.

Unused subs: Buckler, Clarke.