North Greenford United put in a spirited midweek display to beat Molesey 2-1 away in the league - but there will be no FA Cup glory after a disappointing 1-0 home defeat by Essex outfit Tiptree United on Saturday, writes Patrick Hillier.

Tiptree's goal came after just 15 minutes. United keeper Dean Lindsey made a rare mistake when he failed to hold onto a shot from midfielder Kevin Inglis and the ball fell to striker John Watson, who made the most of the opportunity, driving home from close range.

The goal was to prove decisive and for the remainder of the game, the Tiptree defence grew stronger and dealt comfortably with all United's attempts to get back on level terms.

But at least the club's first win of the season on Tuesday night extends their unbeaten start in the Combined Counties Premier League to three games.

Molesey took the lead just before the interval, following a lively opening first half in which both sides created a number of chances but failed to seriously test either goalkeeper.

A pass was played out wide to midfielder Chiko Kadzombe, who got behind the Greenford defence before driving a fine low cross into the box for Lewis Aocerma to drill home from close range.

United raised their game at the beginning of the second half and within 10 minutes of the resumption had levelled the scores.

A penetrating pass found Andre Taiwo free inside the Molesey area and the striker showed tremendous composure as he calmly lobbed the ball over keeper Matt Nash into the far corner.

The game, which up to this point had provided an engaging contest for the spectators, gathered momentum as both sides went all out to secure all three points.

Within a minute of Greenford scoring, Molesey's right back Andy Graves hit a tremendous looping shot that rebounded off the top of the United crossbar.

Molesey continued to press strongly for the winner but were thwarted time and again by resolute Greenford defending.

On 80 minutes, striker Matt Baxter hit the net after pouncing on a loose ball inside the Greenford box, only to have his effort disallowed for offside.

Just two minutes later, Greenford produced one of the side's best moves of the night, which was finished by midfielder Michael Murray. Showing great skill and awareness inside the area, Murray, faced by Molesey defenders, shifted the ball to his left to create space for himself before striking an unstoppable low drive past Nash.

Molesey struck a post with five minutes remaining as they tried to save the game.

This Saturday, United travel to league leaders Chertsey.

On Bank Holiday Monday (11.30am), United entertain near neighbours Wembley at Berkeley Fields.