BRIGHTLINGSEA REGENT moved another step closer to promotion tonight after a 3-1 success at home to Brantham Athletic.

Josh Gould and Kevin Coyle put them in the driving seat, in the Thurlow Nunn League premier division contest at North Road.

Kieran Lawler then pulled one back for Brantham, but Phil Kelly restored the hosts' two-goal cushion and enhanced their dream of Ryman League football.

Brightlingsea, second but level on points with leaders Hadleigh United, have to finish in the top three to achieve promotion and they finish the season with a home match against Norwich United on Saturday.

FC CLACTON were also in action tonight but suffered a 3-2 defeat at home to Godmanchester Rovers.

Louie Newland put the hosts in front inside two minutes, heading home Jake Plane's corner.

However, the classy visitors stepped up a gear and by half-time had opened a 3-1 lead.

Clacton kept battling and had the better of the second half, scoring the best goal of the night through Jack Clampin's volley.

But they were unable to force a leveller and their relegation fate - they are currently a point above the trap door - now hinges on their final match at home to fellow strugglers Thetford on Saturday.