There was no happy end to 2017 for WIVENHOE TOWN as the Dragons closed the calendar year with a big home defeat in the premier division of the Thurlow Nunn League.

While a number of other local sides were unable to see action because of waterlogged pitches, Wivenhoe managed to get the GMP Plant Hire Stadium playing surface prepared but they were unable to take advantage as they lost 6-0 against visiting Thetford Town.

Most of the damage was done in the second half, although the Dragons were trailing 2-0 at the break.

Tyrone Scarlett had hit the woodwork for the hosts towards the end of the first period and keeper Dan Beeson saved a penalty but Wivenhoe never really recovered from conceding in the first minute of the game and went on to see another four goals go in during the second half.

There was, however, reward for BRANTHAM ATHLETIC'S efforts to get their home pitch ready as they enjoyed a 2-1 win to close the year against visiting Newmarket Town.

George Clarke put the Imps ahead at the end of the first half and doubled their lead after half-time and although the Jockeys hit back with an Omer Riza strike, Brantham held on for the victory.

In division one, HOLLAND FC were another side who beat the weather to get their pitch ready for action, but they went down to a 3-0 home defeat by Debenham LC.

Sides unable to see action were COGGESHALL TOWN, STANWAY ROVERS and FC CLACTON as their respective premier division games against Ely City, Godmanchester Rovers and Stowmarket Town were postponed due to waterlogged pitches.

Also denied action by soggy surfaces were BRAINTREE TOWN RESERVES and HALSTEAD TOWN in division one.