STANWAY ROVERS were hit for six as their winning start to the season came to a shuddering halt.

Angelo Harrop’s side had won their opening three Thurlow Nunn League premier division fixtures, seeing off Fakenham, Haverhill Rovers and Long Melford, as well as making FA Cup progress at Clapton.

However, they were brought back to earth after losing 6-1 at Godmanchester Rovers.

Both sides had finished in the top three last season so a tight contest appeared on the cards.

However, Stanway – who started top of the table - were always up against it after conceding from a penalty in the first few seconds and they crumbled after goalkeeper Jack Cherry was red-carded for a second booking, when the score was 2-1.

Terry Rymer scored their consolation goal, netting from close range.

There were goals galore in another premier division fixture as BRANTHAM ATHLETIC routed Thetford 7-3.

Ollie Mann plundered four goals and Sean Bartlett two for Paul Skingley’s side, with their other goal coming from Connor Ward.

Elsewhere in the premier division, FC CLACTON maintained their unbeaten start as they drew 1-1 at home to Walsham-le-Willows.

David Coyle’s side took the lead just after the hour-mark when Charlie Thompson’s free-kick was met by the head of Ben Parkin.

His effort forced an acrobatic save from the Walsham keeper – but the loose ball was steered home by Blake Panrucker.

Clacton’s joy proved short-lived as some soft defending allowed the visitors to net in route one style.

North Essex pair HALSTEAD TOWN and WIVENHOE TOWN are the early pace-setters in division one.

The Dragons, who handed a debut to former Clacton and Stanway man Jake Plane, continued their excellent start with a 2-1 victory at home to Leiston Reserves.

Mo Osman’s side are second with nine points, one less than early leaders Halstead, who won 3-2 at home to Debenham LC.

The Humbugs have played a game more, though.

Mark Benterman’s side notched another win thanks to goals from James Regan, James Murray and Lewis Cunliffe.

Amid the drama, Dave Morgan also contrived to miss a penalty.

Wivenhoe’s win came thanks to a late winner from player-assistant manager Ray Turner.

Ben Connell scored their other goal and Wivenhoe have now won three out of three, with a home match against Cornard United to come on Wednesday night.

BRAINTREE TOWN RESERVES drew 1-1 at home to Team Bury.