BASILDON United secured a much-needed three points to return to the Essex Senior League promotion hunt in the Essex Senior League.

The Bees desperately needed the points as they continued their bid for promotion, but the goal took until almost half-time to come.

Marcus Bowers headed in Joe Skeels’ free-kick on the stroke of the interval to make it 1-0.

Basildon were put under pressure in the second half before they got a second. Tommy Barton fired in to double the advantage and secure the points with four minutes remaining.

Hullbridge Sports were pegged back by Wadham Lodge as their big match near the foot of the division ended 2-2.

After a goalless first 45 minutes the game exploded into life.

Going behind on 51 minutes, Sports responded almost immediately. Callum Ibe demonstrated some nifty footwork to beat several defenders and blast high into the net to equalise.

Matt Rose put Sports ahead just after the hour but 10 minutes later it was all square once again.

Sports had a chance to win it late on but Perry Hirst fired over when well placed and it ended all square.

Southend Manor were comprehensively beaten 3-0 by Ilford at Southchurch Park.

Great Wakering Rovers’ match against Sawbridgeworth Town was postponed, as they dropped to second behind FC Romania.