Ashford United's turbulent off the field season has suffered another setback with the club deducted 10 points by the Southern Counties East League.

News of the sanction emerged on Friday, and could end the club's hopes of winning the league title.

It follows the shock 4-3 home defeat by AFC Croydon Athletic on the pitch on Tuesday night, failing to make up ground on top-two rivals Hollands and Blair and Greenwich Borough.

The statement read: "We have been informed by the league that they have no alternative due to recent events, the club will have to suffer a 10-points reduction until AUFC, exonerates itself in the courts in the next couple of weeks."

It follows receivers being called in last November to recover debts of £260,000 owed to V Bar Ltd, following the installation of the new 3G pitch at Homelands in the summer.

V Bar Managing Director Glyn Jones then took over ownership of the ground.

The deduction is mandatory when there is an issue involving receivership or insolvency.

United CEO Denise Peach added: "It has been made until such time our application to overturn the receivership is heard in the next week or two."

The statement to supporters carried on the United's official website forum added: "The club is positive and hopeful that justice will prevail, and will be back to business as usual.

It is understood the deduction will be reflected in the league table early next week.

Meanwhile United's home game against Erith & Belvedere scheduled for Tuesday night has been postponed as The Deres are involved in a delayed League Challenge Cup tie.

It has now be re-arranged for the following Tuesday.