MANAGER Steve Lloyd added experience to Barnton’s squad with the return of brothers James and Jason McShane before the weekend.

However the Villagers’ fortunes did not change straightaway after they suffered a 10th league defeat from their past 11 matches.

James McShane diverted into his own goal on seven minutes on Saturday, then Alex Murphy doubled Padiham’s lead direct from a free kick.

He had the help of a deflection when the Storks moved further ahead shortly afterwards.

Lee Vaughan was alert to punish a mistake by Mike Donlon, the visitors’ goalkeeper, to make it 3-1.

Kieron Pickup added a fourth goal for Padiham though before the break.

Barnton rallied early in the second period, when captain Chris Smith’s drilled across the face of goal.

The ball reached Vaughan at the back post, but his effort was blocked.

Aaron Taylor scored with a diving header before Murphy completed his hat-trick for Padiham on 65 minutes.

“Our recent signings will add know-how and improve the side’s organisation,” said Lloyd.

“That’s why we targeted them.

“We know we need to get points on the board as quickly as possible and it’s clear things have to turn around.”

Barnton are back in action at Bootle tomorrow, Tuesday, kick off 7.45pm.

Barnton | Conkie (GK), Richards, Paul Alcock, Baker, Meadowcroft (McKay 81), James McShane (Bazley 79), Jones, Houghton, Smith, Crofts, Vaughan Subs not used Cross (GK), Williams, Cobley

Attendance 45