BRIGHTLINGSEA REGENT suffered late heartache on a disappointing day for our BetVictor Isthmian League sides.

While Tom Rothery's side conceded a late winner at East Thurrock United, there were also defeats for north division pair COGGESHALL TOWN and WITHAM TOWN.

Regent had a familiar face in their starting line-up, with George Doyle having re-signed on Friday.

The midfielder has had spells at Aveley and Grays Athletic since leaving the Taydal Stadium in October 2017.

“George and I had a chat and agreed that since he left he’s not really rediscovered the form he was in when leaving Brightlingsea," said Rothery.

"That's probably down to more than just one factor, if we're honest.

"George is really driven and focussed on getting his head down and rediscovering that form and obviously having been at the club, he understands what he’s coming in to.

"I think that will help him settle easily and hopefully quickly.

"I know what George can do when he’s focussed and I believe if we get him playing to his capabilities he can be a really important player for us and somebody who can help us in areas that we're not firing in currently.”

Doyle was hoping to get off to a winning start on his second debut for the club but Frankie Merrifield's first-half penalty put East Thurrock ahead.

Jake Turner equalised ten minutes from time but Merrifield had the last laugh, scoring his side's winner in the 90th minute.

With north division leaders MALDON AND TIPTREE in FA Cup action, Coggeshall were one of several sides hoping to make up ground on the Jammers.

However, they suffered a 3-2 defeat at Cambridge City - despite leading 2-0 after strikes from Conor Hubble and Chris Regis.

Once again, there were late goals as Cambridge hit back through Jordan Gent (66), Adam Watkins (80) and Arel Amu (90).

Witham's defeat was a 2-0 reverse at Great Wakering Rovers.

Both goals - one in each half - were scored by Alfie Hilton.