Stowmarket Town 3-1 Hashtag United: Chris Casement's side victorious

The table toppers were seeking their 22nd successive win in front of the day’s best attendance of 734 spectators at Greens Meadow.

However, they received a rude awakening, and meekly succumbed to a Stowmarket team that proved too strong for the Essex side. Hashtag, nevertheless, remain well clear of the chasing pack and are ‘champions elect’ indeed - strong favourites to claim the one automatic promotion spot.

The visitors were so well beaten that the home supporters engaged in the rendition of ‘top of the league you're having a laugh’ several times over.

Ed Upson fires in his second and Stowmarket's third goal (Image: Paul Voller)

Chris Casement’s side were in front as early as the second minute and increased that lead on the stroke of half time.

A third on the hour proved emphatic, and the consolation goal in the 86th minute proved too little too late.

It was a perfect start when Ed Upson headed home a cross from the right. The visitors had some early possession, but were languid in their approach work, and barely threatened James Bradbrook’s goal. When required to deal with crosses throughout, the keeper’s positional play and handling were exemplary.

Harvey Sayer often tormented the visiting defence, whereas in contrast the home central partnership of skipper Tom Bullard and Joe Jefford was imperious.

Upson, whose presence was a major factor with his touches and range of passing, combined well with Sayer to set up the second when Jack Ainsley stroked home from close range.

Ed Upson tries an inventive effort at goal which was ultimately saved by the keeper (Image: Paul Voller)

Although more positive, the anticipated response from the leaders failed to materialise, a credit to Casement’s side, who showed resilience when necessary.

The lead was extended on the hour with Kane Mundy setting up ‘man of the match’ Ed Upson to fire home from close in.

Once again Upson was on hand to test James Philp who made a partial save.

Hashtag looked to reduce the arrears and following a corner Lewis Watson narrowly headed wide. They produced several teasing crosses into the box, but Bradbrook continued with safe hands.

However, the custodian was exposed just before the end when following a long throw Jermaine Francis headed home, a meagre consolation for the leaders.