East Grinstead's unbeaten record tumbled as they slipped to a 2-1 defeat at home to Bowdon on Sunday.

Spirits were high after opening the season with victories away to Peterborough and Formby.

But, just as they had against Lewes the previous week, Bowdon took maximum points from the Sussex side as Grinstead struggled to find their rhythm.

Things started well when captain Dominick Male put Grinstead in front, following up from a short corner.

However, the lead did not last as Chris Cheetham levelled for Bowdon seven minutes later.

Bowdon had most of the possession but Grinstead still had the better openings as Gregor Eiden and Matt McNeil both put shots inches wide.

Bowdon went in front through Ian Wilson after Grinstead failed to clear from a corner. Grinstead again created chances but the visitors held firm despite two sudden death corners at the end.

Grinstead coach Ian Pattison said: "This was a very disappointing result and performance. Although we had chances to equalise we never worked hard enough for the points."

Victory extended Bowdon's 100 per cent record and left Grinstead fourth in the table, three points behind the leading trio.

A late goal condemned Lewes to their second defeat in three games.

Luke Hurle and Tim Garner twice put Lewes ahead but hosts Oxford Hawks recovered to claim a 3-2 victory.

Despite the defeat, Lewes were able to take positives from the game.

Manager Paul Benoy said: "We probably played the best hockey we have all season in the first 25 minutes. We have got a relatively new squad who have not played in this division.

"After last week, it was difficult to find any plus points. This week we did play well but inexperience cost us in the end.

"There was a lot of commitment and hard work. We are learning but we have got to learn quickly."

Carl Wright set up Hurle to put Lewes ahead with a smart finish after five minutes but Oxford levelled midway through the half through Matthew Baggs.

Garner restored the advantage on 28 minutes after latching on to a long pass from skipper Will Champness but Dawie Holley drew Oxford level before half-time.

Lewes were reduced to eight men at one stage in the second half with three men sin-binned. They held firm until all three returned but the extra effort took its toll and Baggs bagged a winner for Oxford four minutes from time.

Both Lewes and East Grinstead are away this weekend. Lewes visit Hounslow and Ealing while Grinstead travel to Oxford Hawks.