LAVERSTOCK & Ford lost ground on the Division One pacesetters when they slumped to another disappointing defeat at Farnbor-ough North End.

Both teams provided end-to-end attacking football despite the poor pitch conditions and both goalkeepers were called on to make vital saves.

However, Laverstock broke the deadlock on 20 minutes when a loose ball fell to defender Paul Lucas who connected superbly, striking the ball into the top corner from 25 yards out with the home 'keeper rooted to the spot.

Laverstock continued to press for a second, but the home side were quick on the break and beat the offside trap with a neat through ball that was calmly slotted beyond Liam McConnell for the equaliser.

The visitors started the second half brightly, but soon conceded their customary early second half goal.

The game was still open with Toby Giles hitting the post from a corner while Dom Male had a great chance when clean through but he scuffed his shot.

Farnborough then increased their lead with a controversial penalty.

Laverstock piled forward and again hit the post - this time from Graham Mankin. But the home side snatched another goal to complete a flattering score line.