SWINDON were on the end of a thumping 5-1 defeat at Premier Division 2A table-toppers Salisbury The controversial decision of the umpire to award a short corner led to the only goal of the first half.

After the break, another Salisbury short corner was awarded and following a goalline battle, the ball was swept in by a home forward.

The visitors’ heads then went down and they lost their shape, resulting in Salisbury scoring three goals in quick succession, two from open play and another from a short corner.

Swindon grabbed a consolation when good attacking play from player of the match Julie Lewis led to a free hit outside the circle, which found its way to Vicki Stokes, and she pushed into the net.

Meanwhile, there was also an emphatic defeat for North Wilts, who fell 4-0 at home to Bath Buccs in Wessex Division 1.

The home side were slow out of the blocks and conceded six short corners in the first half, four of which resulted in goals for Buccs.

After the break Buccs continued to pile on the pressure but Natasha Cremin, Emily Dunn, Hazel Leedham and Hannah Sherratt worked valiantly to prevent further goals.

Camilla Fisher was voted player of the match for her efforts in the middle of the pitch Inspite of substitute goalkeeper Tegan Buchanan's efforts, Wootton Bassett were defeated 3-0 by Bristol University 2nds in North Division.

Buchanan was named player of the match after coming in for the injured regular stopper but could not prevent a loss for her team.

North Wilts 2nds put up a brave effort at Thornbury 3rds in Berkeley Division 3 but were on the end of a 3-1 defeat.

The South Gloucestershire side drew first blood but good build-up play from Rebecca Bean and Aileen Newport resulted in Georgina Foster getting the equaliser.

In the latter stages of the second half, North Wilts tired and Thornbury grabbed another two goals.

North Wilts goalkeeper Megan Emms was voted player of the match for her athletic and controlled display.

Swindon 2nds moved into second in Wessex Division 2 after beating Chippenham 3rds 1-0.

Ellie Symonds scored the only goal and player of the match Charlotte Airey made an excellent debut.