Despite an improved start from the visitors, it was Eastern who scored first with a header from a corner in the 12^th minute, taking a 1-0 advantage into the break.

Murray struck back through a tap in from Angel Taravillo after some excellent lead-up play from Zac Walker in the 55^th minute.

However, Eastern were quick to reply with another header just three minutes later to undo all of Murray’s hard work.

Eastern put the game beyond doubt with a third goal in the 75th minute to record their sixth win of the NPL 2 season.

Murray coach Elliot Jones admitted individually and collectively, the performance of his side wasn’t good enough.

“We have to live with that and we have to work hard to get better,” Jones said.

“When you have some results not go your way, confidence is a big thing.

“Individually and also as a side, we’re down on confidence and sometimes that can be hard to swing back in your favour.

“It’s about keeping things simple and working hard and we feel we can get back to our best.

“Again it was a game we thought we were really up for and just couldn’t get the result.”

Jones felt his side started stronger in the second half, but couldn’t hold onto any momentum after levelling the contest.

“Although the guys were working hard, that composure and keeping things simple on the ball was what we needed and we lacked it again,” he said.

“The last couple of weeks on the track have been really promising, we just need to convert that on match day.

“We’re looking to get our full side back and there’s certainly no excuses moving forward.

“We really need to snap this losing streak and get back to the football we know we can play.”

Murray was limited off the bench with Archie Thompson a late withdrawal with back tightness in what was due to be his return game for the club.

“Although he could have got 15-20 minutes out of himself, we want to be mindful that we want Archie for the next 10 games, not in for one and out for a couple,” Jones said.

“Daniel Vasilevski will be available next week for his first game, as well as Archie and Ryan Giles.

“Also guys like Gonzalo (Freddi) will be much better for a couple of games under his belt.

“All things considered, over the next month we should strengthen, but we really need to start getting some points.”

The ladder after round 16 is: Dandenong City 36, Moreland City 34, Springvale White Eagles 23, Melbourne City 22, Goulburn Valley Suns 22, Eastern Lions 20, Langwarrin 20, Murray United 16, Box Hill United 16, Nunawading City 11.