Despite the boost of an early lead this proved to be another below-par display from the young Clarets who have now lost their opening three league games.

A bright start from the home side led to an eight-minute advantage, Jennifer Baldock smartly tucking away Emily Kendle’s precise pass. But from thereon, the points rather too easily slipped away. A tap-in after 14 minutes restored parity and by half-time Hutton had cruised into a 3-1 lead thanks to further defensive generosity.

City began the second-half in sleep mode and conceded again within a few moments of the restart, with four then quickly becoming five. The City girls kept battling though and three successive attacks could have brought a reply, Baldock hitting the inside of the post and both Hollie Austin and Karina Fox just missing the target.

Hutton then proceeded to underline their superiority in the key areas by scoring another three goals to give the hosts plenty to think about before travelling to LTD on Sunday. The ‘Girl of the Match’ award went to newcomer Rosanna Critchell whose addition to the squad will hopefully help results and performances improve rapidly.

Match in focus

Chelmsford City: Christie Lucking, Rosanna Critchell, Leanne Miles, Hannah Tomsett, Emily Kendle, Karina Fox, Laura Massey, Jade Harrington, Sophie Dorrington, Hollie Austin, Jennifer Baldock, Gemma Plank.

City Player of the match: Rosanna Critchell

Referee: Steve Dorrington (Chelmsford).