Harleston Magpies' tough start to life back in the National League continued when they lost to the early pacesetters to remain at the foot of the table.

Without Andy Hipwell following his head injury, Magpies were growing into the game when they went behind. Richard Larkin brought a Richmond attacker down and the hosts converted the resultant penalty stroke.

The hosts quickly doubled their advantage after the ball was hit firmly into Andrew Bedwell which resulted in a short corner which was deflected into the goal by the first runner, giving man of the match Jon Livings no chance.

Magpies then enjoyed their best spell of the game. They started to distribute the ball well and a flowing moved that was worked from flank to flank between Toby Price and Leigh Sitch saw the captain fire a ball down the left side which resulted in a cross from Ben Wright which was tucked away by Ben Underwood to make it 2-1.

The second half was evenly balanced with both teams enjoying periods of possession. Richmond carved out the better chances and Harleston had Livings in goal to thank for several good saves. Magpies had their own chances and two penalty corners were won but both were comfortably saved.

The visitors were unfortunate to concede a short corner themselves when Bedwell was harshly penalised and the resulting set-piece was rifled in to put the home team 3-1 up.

Harleston continued to battle away but were unable to score a goal that would have made it a nervous finale for the hosts.

Harleston face Brighton and Hove – also without a win so far – at home on Saturday.