A DEPLETED Swindon College Old Boys side suffered their first shut-out of the season as they feel to a heavy defeat at the hands of league-leaders Reading Abbey.

Having been promoted to Southern Counties North together at the end of last season, both sides have enjoyed contrasting starts to the new campaign.

Saturday’s hosts have lost just once in their opening six games, while Mark Lea’s outfit have failed to record a win.

Despite having lost their opening six games, College had never been beaten heavily and had always scored points until Saturday’s 35-0 drubbing.

However, with limited resources, Lea knew his side were always going to have a tough time of it.

“We travelled with a depleted squad and only two substitutes to allow the second team to play - so I’m glad the second team won,” said Lea.

“We had 15 first-team squad members missing for various reasons and all but one of the backs from the previous weeks changed.

“The game was very one-sided and we did struggle to get into their 22, however the heart and determination my team showed was incredible and I am proud of them all.”

Meanwhile, Swindon’s lost 13-10 to Witney in South West One East.