PERSHORE Town slipped to a third Hellenic League Premier defeat in a row as Highworth Town outlined their play-off credentials with a 3-1 victory at the Recruit 12 Community Stadium on Saturday.

The Plums' strong start to the season has lost momentum in recent weeks after league defeats to Tuffley Rovers and Corsham Town, as well as exiting the FA Vase and the WFA Senior Cup.

And it was another disappointing afternoon at the weekend, despite going ahead in the 12th through Sam Clark's composed finish.

With 30 minutes played, the visitors equalised when a Riegan Cooke corner fell to Dan Comer, who beat keeper Eddie Cox from close range.

Highworth dominated the second period without creating many clear-cut chances until the 72nd minute.

The ball ended up with Luke Whelan out on the left and in typical fashion, he weaved his way past a couple of defenders before beating Cox and putting Highworth into the lead for the first time.

It should have been three minutes later when, after Cox blocked Connor Mattimore's effort, Steve Robertson slammed the rebound against the crossbar.

The game was settled on 82 minutes as Dan Grieve converted from the spot after Mattimore was fouled in the penalty box.

The result means Pershore remain down in 9th in the table, five points adrift of Highworth in fifth, who have a number of games in hand on those above them in the table and are very much in contention for a top finish.