ARDLEY United’s run of five straight league victories was brought to a halt as they went down 3-2 at home to ten-man Thame United in Uhlsport Hellenic League Premier Division on Saturday.

Elias Katsoloudi netted a brace for the hosts, but despite Aiden Bailey’s sending-off 30 minutes from time they were unable to overcome a determined Thame side, who scored through Andy Gledhill, Dan West and Ellis Hercules.

Katsoloudi put United front almost immediately after kick-off, slotting home after Ade Talabi had beaten his man and played the ball across goal.

The lead was shortlived, however, as Thame responded within a minute, pulling themselves level when a cross from the right reached Gledhill, who fired past debutant Ardley keeper Jake Butler.

Talabi continued to terrorise the Thame defence, but the momentum shifted irreversibly in the 25th minute when he twisted his knee and had to be replaced.

Just two minutes later, the visitors seized the lead when Chris Jackson was dispossessed on the right flank and West was on hand to finish the resulting cross.

A minute from half-time a similar move from the Thame right-hand side was bundled home by Hercules to give his side a 3-1 lead at the break and leave Ardley with a mountain to climb.

They were given a helping hand on the hour mark when Bailey brought down Reece Bayliss as he charged clean through on goal and was sent off.

From the resulting free-kick, Katsoloudi hauled Ardley back into the game, heading Carl Tappin’s cross over the keeper and into the net.

But frustration was to follow as the hosts struggled to break down a stubborn Thame defence.

Luke Cray went closest to salvaging a point for Ardley, heading against the bar in the 90th minute, but there was to be no comeback.

This Saturday, Ardley face a stiff test at home to Kidlington, who reached the FA Vase quarter-finals last week with a 2-1 victory away to Cleethorpes Town.