Needham Market manager Mark Morsley felt his side were hard done by in not getting three points on Saturday and accepts that a play-off finish is now out of their hands.

Despite remaining in the last and final play-off place as things stand, sixth-placed Thurrock can oust Needham out of the top five if they are to take advantage of their game in hand.

Post-match, a disappointed Morsley reflected: “It feels like a defeat.

“I thought we were the far better team in the second half and were the team trying to win the game.

“It’s very frustrating and disappointing and a shame for the lads because we didn’t quite get what we deserved.”

Thurrock currently sit just one point behind Needham and depending on tomorrow’s results, can leapfrog Morsley’s men if they are to take advantage.

Needham must realistically win their remaining games, while hoping Ware can upset Thurrock as the pair meet twice in four days this week, starting tomorrow afternoon.

“We’ll keep going to the end,” added Morsley, whose side travel to Soham tomorrow.

“Maybe our run of good results has come a month too late but I think there will be more twists to come.

“It’s out of our hands but you never know.”

Morlsey also backed up keeper Andrew Plummer after his blunder ultimately cost his side three points on Saturday.

He said: “Andy’s lost his footing and it’s just one of those goals but he’s had a good season.

“He made a great save from Read just before and he’s in my top four players of the season.

“If we don’t reach the play-offs people might look at that but I really think that’s a bit unfair.”