ASCOT United, having won 5-2 at Henley in midweek, were brought crashing back to earth on Saturday when they lost 3-0 at home to Thatcham Town in their Hellenic League Premier Division encounter.

The Yellamen were forced to field an understrength side with manager Jeff Lamb again having to name himself among just three substitutes.

With player availability still causing a concern, Lamb is hoping to make further signings.

Ascot should have taken a fourth-minute lead when Luke Wilson found himself clean through, only to shoot straight at keeper Chris Rackley.

At the other end, Shane Cooper-Clark screwed the ball wide of an open goal, but the visitors did not have to wait before taking the lead in the 13th minute.

Joel Jacobs planted a good ball into the area for the unmarked James Tennant to fire into the top right-hand corner.

Cooper-Clark stung the palms of keeper Carl Dennison before a shot on the turn from Josh Helmore flew narrowly wide of the right-hand post.

Ascot then lost Jake Parsons with a knee injury, bringing Charlie Bird off the bench.

Thatcham doubled their advantage after 55 minutes with Tennant starting and finishing off a move that also involved Jemel Johnson.

Gavin Brainch replaced Louie Gilpin on the hour mark as Ascot searched for inspiration, but all hopes of any comeback were extinguished in the 67th minute when Johnson fired low under Dennison to make it 3-0.

Ascot visit Brackley Town Saints tonight (Wednesday), followed by a trip to Ardley United on Saturday (3pm).

Then next Tuesday they entertain league rivals Highmoor Ibis in the first round of the Berks & Bucks Senior Trophy (7.45pm).

Ascot will have to travel to Kent to play Hollands & Blair in the first round of the FA Vase on October 22.

The Gillingham-based side currently occupy fifth place in the Southern Counties East Premier Division.