CHIPPENHAM Town ended a run of three defeats in a row in National League South with a 2-1 victory at home to Tonbridge Angels on Saturday.

Consecutive losses against Hampton & Richmond Borough, Braintree Town and Dorking Wanderers had taken the gloss off the opening month of the new campaign for Mark Collier's side, although they put those frustrations behind them at Hardenhuish Park.

Tariq Ossai's goal gave the Bluebirds a slender lead at the break and the home side doubled their advantage midway through the second half when Chris Zebroski hit the back of the net.

A moment of madness then threatened to undo Chippenham's good work, with goalkeeper Will Puddy sent off for an altercation with Tonbridge's Sonny Miles, which also saw the visitors awarded a penalty.

Tom Derry lashed home from 12 yards to cut the gap and set up a nervous conclusion, but the Bluebirds held on to claim all three points.

Although far from a complete performance from his side, manager Collier was delighted to get back to winning ways.

“On the back of three defeats, we looked a little nervous, to be totally honest," said Collier.

“We have played better and not won games before, so it is sometimes nice to win ugly.

“We didn’t start particularly well but we went in at half-time 1-0 up. At that stage, we weren’t happy with how we had gone about our business and we reminded a few players of that.

“In the second half, we were much better and we got a second goal after a great team move.

“We were in total command of the game at that point and always looked a threat going forwards but then Will Puddy got himself sent off and gave away a penalty, which Tonbridge scored.

"Suddenly, you have got six or seven minutes left and you are up against it.

“But we managed to dig in and hold on and it is a big three points for us in the end."

Collier was unimpressed at seeing keeper Puddy allow the red mist to descend as he was given his marching orders.

An impending suspension may now well force the Bluebirds boss to strengthen his ranks between the sticks.

“Will is disappointed with his actions," said Collier.

"He has been reminded of his responsibilities, he will take his punishment and we will move on from it.

“We have still got Conor Thompson to call on but I will make some phone calls over the early part of the week and see what we can do with it."