AFTER a six-week lay off, Thornbury, made the worst possible start to the New Year when they slumped to their heaviest league defeat of the season.

Thornbury took the lead when Adam Harley played the ball to Danny Thompson, whose driven cross found brother Steve unmarked at the far post and he had the simple task of netting to give Thorns the lead.

Danny Thompson split the defence with a pass through to Steve Alexander, who drew the keeper before knocking the ball past him but his shot hit the post.

A minute later Danny Thompson’s shot from outside the area flew just wide of the top corner, and moments afterwards Steve Thompson’s superbly flighted free kick gave the keeper no chance but crashed back off the crossbar and was cleared.

With just three minutes left to the break, Town gave the ball away in midfield and despite having chances to clear, Sam Thomas was allowed time to fire home.

Thorns almost regained their lead immediately when a cross from Danny Thompson was deflected onto the post by a DRG defender with the keeper beaten.

The opening ten minutes of the second half saw keeper Alex Lippiatt pull off a couple of good saves, tipping one shot over the bar and diving low to push another effort round the post.

However, the visitors’ pressure paid off midway through the half when a corner from the left was headed home at the far post by Andy Criddle.

Five minutes from time another mistake in defence gifted Aaron Taynton an easy chance and he made no mistake from inside the six yard box and then in stoppage time, Rob Treanor went on a run through the home defence before slotting home.

Thornbury will be looking to get back to winning ways this Saturday when they visit local rivals Patchway Town (2pm).

It is possible that this game will be postponed as Patchway have a County Cup tie outstanding, but confirmation will be on Thornbury’s website, www.webteams.co.uk/thornburytownfc