Hayes & Yeading United slipped out of the Blue Square Conference South play-offs positions as they went down 2-1 at leaders Cherlmsford City in a controversial match on Saturday before a crowd of over 1,500.

With a little more than 20 minutes of the game remaining United were leading thanks to a 14th minute Matt Ruby effort before Chelmsford hit back to score twice and snatch the points in a stormy finish to the clash.

Chelmsford got back on level terms through substitute Jason Hallett after 72 minutes and then with eight minutes left they were awarded a controversial penalty which leading scorer Dave Rainford converted to put the Essex side six points clear at the top.

At the final whistle United substitute Leon Solomon was shown a red card for using foul and abusive language towards the match officials.

This defeat drops United down to eighth position in the table.