Stratford Town remain without a victory this season after a late comeback from East Anglian visitors Needham Market secured a 2-1 win at the home ground on Saturday.

Stratford started strongly, creating an early opportunity within 20 seconds when Kevin Bastos set up Jack Bearne, whose shot was saved by Needham keeper James Bradbrook. Shortly after, Dan Lafferty, marking his 200th appearance for Stratford, was twice denied by Bradbrook, while Jack Storer’s overhead kick also failed to find the net.

Despite these attempts, it was Stratford who took the lead in the 27th minute. Bradbrook was unable to control a corner delivery, allowing Kory Roberts to capitalize and score. The visitors responded with a long-range strike from Kyle Hammond that forced Stratford's goalkeeper Jake Weaver into a strong save. Early in the second half, Weaver and teammate Dan Vann combined effectively to block a close-range effort from Joe Neal.

Needham Market adjusted their lineup and formation after halftime, which shifted momentum in their favor. The visitors leveled in the 57th minute under unusual circumstances when Weaver collided with a defender, allowing Jake Dye to capitalize and score. Needham continued to press and secured the winning goal eight minutes before full time. Substitute Marcel Lewis assisted fellow substitute Harlyn Palmer, who scored from close range.

The result leaves Stratford searching for their first win of the season, while Needham Market gained valuable points from a resilient away performance.