Bishops Cleeve maintained their spot atop the Hellenic Premier with a 3-1 win over foot of the table Hallen on Saturday.

Goals from Kieran Alder, Jake Rhodes and Blaine Waugh was enough to claim the three points despite a late consolation goal from the hosts.

The win leaves Bishops Cleeve seven points adrift at the top of the table however second placed Malvern Town have two games in hand.

There were few chances for either side in the opening half hour of Saturday’s match but it was the hosts who looked most likely to score first.

Shortly before the 30 minute, a self-made error from the Cleeve defence allowed the ball to fall to Dawid Regula who saw his shot blocked.

Hallen would rue the missed opportunity as just minutes later the visitors went ahead.

Blaine Waugh’s cross was bundled in at the near post by Kieran Alder with just ten minutes to go until the halftime whistle.

The goal changed the tide of the game as the Mitres took control, showcasing the ability that has seen them go 17 unbeaten in the league.

Shortly after the interval Cleeve doubled their lead.

Joe Selman’s cross was met by Jake Rhodes who head across goal and into the back of the net.

Despite being firmly in the driving seat, Cleeve were far from their best whilst Hallen demonstrated some fine passing football, with just the final finish alluding them.

The Mitres then put the result out of question when Steve Davies’ cross was tapped in by Waugh with just ten to go.

Hallen’s efforts weren’t completely without reward, Adrian Harvey bagging a consolation goal late on.

Up next for Cleeve’s is a clash with Corsham Town at the Spiers and Hartwell Jubilee Stadium, home of Evesham United.

Meanwhile in the Hellenic League Division One there were defeats for Moreton Rangers and Bourton Rovers who now sit 14th and 16th respectively.

Just days after manager Mark Boydell left the club due to “personal reasons”, Moreton were battered 7-1 away at Studley.

Bourton meanwhile were comfortably beaten 4-0 at home by Milton United.

Meanwhile Cheltenham Saracens have moved up to first once more after a 2-0 win at Newent.