GRAYS Athletic let an early lead slip as they suffered a 3-1 defeat to Potters Bar Town.

Jamie Stuart's side, who have made a disappointing start to the Isthmian North season, were looking to build on their entertaining 4-3 win over Norwich United in the FA Trophy preliminary round on Saturday.

But the visitors were able to claim all three points and condemn Grays to their eighth Isthmian North loss of the campaign.

As a result, Grays remain third from bottom in the standings.

However, Grays made a bright start as Kieran Bishop, who notched two goals at the weekend, struck the inside of the post early on.

And the hosts did not have to wait much longer to take the lead, as Kai Brown converted after 11 minutes following an impressive cross into the penalty area by debutant Tim Monsheju.

The attacker, who has joined from Witham Town, then went close himself as he sent a deft flick just over the crossbar.

Andrew Lomas got Potters Bar back on level terms eight minutes before half-time, and the match was turned on its head just four minutes later.

Jack Fowler was adjudged to have fouled Eoin Casey in the penalty area and Michael Murray stepped up to send Lamar Johnson the right way.

And the game was put beyond Grays nine minutes after the break as Casey converted a corner.

Stanley Muguo, who also got on the scoresheet against Norwich United, thought he had given Grays a late lifeline. But the midfielder was ruled offside as he put the ball in the back of the net.

Stuart will be looking for a reaction from his side when they travel to Ware on Saturday.

Grays Athletic: Johnson, Mahal, Cross, Fowler, Dunn (Folkes 56'), Muguo, Brown (Poole 52'), Cole, Bishop, Zuhdu (Ibe 69'), Monsheju