NEIL Kirkpatrick described the referee's performance as "diabolical" on Saturday after Trowbridge were beaten by 10-man Winterbourne in a fiery clash at Woodmarsh.

The Bees manager said the official ruined a potential classic encounter between two sides pushing for promotion to the Hellenic Premier Division.

The defeat leaves Trowbridge trailing league leaders Winterbourne by a massive 23 points and second-placed Headington Amateurs by 13 points, with just four games in hand.

Kirkpatrick said: "There was not a bad tackle out there today but he (the referee) ruined it for both sides.

"We had enough chances to win the game. Winterbourne were not the better side but they defended very well with 10 men.

"They are going to win the league now. I just hope they can beat Headington for us to make it close."

Kirkpatrick has now turned his attention to the remaining fixtures at Woodmarsh, which he believes Trowbridge must win to remain in the hunt at the end of the season.

He said: "We have still got to play eight of our last 11 games at home so it's in our hands. We always do well here.We will take this defeat on the chin and bounce back next week. I have no doubt that we will finish in the top four."

The visitors almost took the lead in the opening minute but Trowbridge stopper Lewis Porter flung himself to his left to concede a corner.

Dave Percival, still searching for his 100th Trowbridge Town goal, danced past two defenders in the 15th minute but his shot was turned behind for a corner with Dean Barker well placed to score.

Michael Barnes made two saving tackles in the space of 60 seconds, but his brother Adrian was not so fortunate when he deflected the ball into his own net after 29 minutes.

Trowbridge equalised 11 minutes later when the hapless Neil Ward headed past his own goalkeeper. The linesman flagged for offside but after consultation with the referee the goal was allowed to stand.

Barker looked to have been fouled in the box just before half-time but the striker was shown a yellow card for diving.

Winterbourne had a player sent off after the break but the visitors defended with commitment to keep Trowbridge at bay.

Percival wasted a good chance on the hour mark when he fired wide of the left upright. The ball was then pumped forward to Nick Waters, who stepped inside Michael Barnes and fired a shot into the roof of the net.

Chris Tricker headed inches wide for Trowbridge in stoppage time but the league leaders held on.

The Bees travel to Easington Sports tomorrow with a full strength squad for what Kirkpatrick has described as a "must win" game. Fans should contact Gloria Hambly on (01225) 755097 for coach details.