A DEPLETED Tenbury United slipped to a 2-0 defeat by Hinton to leave them second-bottom in the Herefordshire Football League Premier Division.

With four players out, United were always going to be up against it although they did welcome back Ian Patterson who had been out of action for about six weeks.

Despite being low on numbers, Tenbury more than matched their opponents in a game which produced few chances played on a heavy pitch.

Brad Matthews put the visitors ahead in the first half following a deflected strike, with centre half Dale Withers putting in a superb performance.

Ash Giles and Ian Patterson were lively up front for Tenbury but Hinton's defence held firm throughout the match.

"We thought that if we could keep it at 1-0 we’d eventually get a chance to at least get the draw we think we deserved," said Tenbury joint manager, Nick Stocker.

With 15 minutes to go, Tenbury went for broke and made three changes in a more attacking formation. However, just 30 seconds after the changes, Hinton doubled their advantage.

Tenbury continued to push and went close on two occasions but couldn't find the net.

"Even though we lost 2-0 we were much happier with the overall team performance," said Stocker.

"In recent weeks we’ve felt the team as a whole has been poor but with lads to come back in and an improved display we're hoping we will put a few results together to pull us away from the bottom of the league.

"Even with so many injuries and un-availabilities we still managed a squad of 17 which was an excellent turnout."

Elsewhere in the division, Orleton Colts went down 3-0 at Pegasus Reserves.

Colts boss Kristian Morgan said his side's performance was better than the scoreline suggested with his side creating numerous chances.

A goalkeeper injury meant Colts' right back Kyle Whitticase had to go between the sticks and the rookie did well considering his inexperience.

"It wasn't really a 3-0 scoreline," said Morgan.

"They were a good team but possession-wise we matched them and we had a couple of one-on-one chances.

"It was certainly a better performance than last week when we lost at Fownhope."