Totton fell to their their third away defeat in a week as their poor form on the road continued in a 1-0 loss at Barwell.

Missing flu-striken striker Richard Gillespie Totton boss Steve Riley partnered Luke Roberts with Stefan Brown in attack but the Stags frontmen found the early going difficult against the strong Barwell back line.

With most of the first period action confined to the Totton half, the home side threatened with efforts from Richard Lavery and Luke Barlone.

On 34 minutes the hosts went close when Jamie Powers cross was stamped goalwards by Scott Hadland forcing Jamie Whisken to clear and with the ball not fully away Powers follow-up was well saved by Gareth Barfoot.

Totton chances were scarce but on 37 minutes Brown turned well on the edge of the area before stuffing his shot over the bar.

Then on 40 minutes the Stags found themselves behind when Balone low free kick was pushed away by Barfoot but only into the path of Scott Lower who poked home the loose ball.

Totton started the second-half brightly with Baily Cargill threatening but the home side continued to look dangerous on the counter and a last ditch Ross Bottomley tackle denied Tom Weale.

A frantic finale saw both sides create late chances and with seven minutes remaining a long ball down field was chased by Brown who headed inches wide as he collided with Liam Castle in the home goal.

In the final minutes Barfoot dived low to save well from Kevin Charley before Brown’s low drive in added time flew just wide of the post.