With the scores at 3-2 in the final minute, the ball popped up in the penalty area and struck Croydon defender Ben Shannon on the hand.

The linesman signalled a penalty but after a brief discussion, referee Phillips over-ruled his assistant and Town were left without a point.

Once again Ady Colwell was left lamenting defensive lapses. His men gifted the visitors two first half goals to leave Town chasing the game.

Town began slowly and other than a couple of long range efforts from Luke Denton, the visitor's defence was rarely troubled.

On 15 minutes Town fell behind after tricky wing play from Jeremiah Olusang. The Croydon man side-stepped Peter Featherstone and sneaked his finish between Tanner and the near post.

Kevin Rose, making his first start of the season, drew Town level in the 25th minute when he headed home a Danny Simmonds corner.

If Tanner was disappointed with his efforts for the first goal, he was furious with Croydon's second. Once again Olusang found space on the left and his tame effort slipped under the ex-Hailsham stopper to give the visitors a deserved lead.

They extended their advantage and took a 3-1 lead into half-time as Bryan Glover flicked home Danny Waldren's corner.

In the second half John Piercy and Shaun Loft replaced Greg Manton and Peter Cooper, Piercy's long range passes set up numerous attacks but Town could not convert their chances.

Loft had an over-head kick cleared off the line and Denton powered a free header over from close range.

Loft did pull one back with a close range header but this time there was no miracle comeback and Town were left to vent their frustrations at the referee after his refusal to award a last gasp penalty.

Town: Tanner 5, Featherstone 5, Dicker 6, Putland 7, Rose 6, Manton 5 (Piercy 6), Denton 7, Simmonds 6, Leach 6, Cooper 6 (Loft 6), Brockwell 6.
MoM: Luke Denton - commitment
Ref: C Philips
Att: 120