Redbridge remain three points clear of the Isthmian Division One North relegation zone despite losing 4-0 to Brightlingsea Regent on Saturday.

Braces from Jordan Heath and Ben Newson sunk the Motormen, ending their three-match winning streak in abrupt fashion.

Hosts Regent were on top from the outset and although Redbridge looked dangerous on the break, they were unable to truly tested home goalkeeper Andrew Plummer.

The R’s took the lead after 18 minutes as Redbridge were made to pay for their failure to properly clear a free-kick from 30 yards. Josh Gould picked up the loose ball and fed Heath, who in turn fired coolly beyond Mark Parker to open the scoring.

The home side almost doubled their advantage in first-half injury-time when Russell Malton let fly from the right-hand side of the penalty area, only to see his effort cleared away on the line.

Dave Ross and Ricky Eaton’s side twice went close after the break, with home keeper Plummer alert to block two efforts in quick succession.

Shortly after the hour mark Regent increased the lead when Gould released Phil Kelly to run at the Redbridge backline and cross for Heath to fire home his second.

Two minutes later the Redbridge cause was dealt a body blow as Bostry Bansende was given his marching orders after picking up a second yellow card.

Newson almost capitalised on Regent’s numerical advantage immediately after but instead struck the woodwork.

The winger would not have to wait long to get in on the act, scoring Regent’s third, collecting the ball on the edge of the penalty area and lashing home after the visitors had failed to deal with a corner kick properly.

Three minutes after his first, Newson doubled up. Having received possession the midfielder advanced past a Redbridge defender and bent a sumptuous effort past Parker and into the far corner.

A miserable day for Redbridge was completed two minutes from time when Vinny Murphy was sent off for a second bookable offence.

Regent nearly rubbed salt in the Redbridge wounds with a fifth, but Ricky Grigg saw his effort held by Parker.

Redbridge are at home to Barkingside on Saturday (kick-off 1pm).

Waltham Abbey saw their home game against Dereham Town fall foul of the weather.

The Abbotts make the trip to Cheshunt on Boxing Day.

In the Essex Senior League, Waltham Forest saw their trip to Tower Hamlets postponed due to inclement weather.

The Stags host Hullbridge Sports on Saturday.