Ebbsfleet United slumped to their fifth successive defeat in the Blue Square Premier League when they went down 3-1 at Grays Athletic on New Year's Day.

Stuart Thurgood gave the Essex side a a 31st-minute lead when he crashed a 25-yard shot past United keeper Lance Cronin.

Ishmael Welsh made it 2-0 before half-time, and although substitute Kezie Ibe gave United hope in the second half, Grays made sure of victory when Jamie Stuart scored 11 minutes from time.

There was more frustration for Liam Daish's side on Saturday when their home game with Wrexham was postponed because of a frozen pitch.

Ebbsfleet are at home to Stalybridge Celtic this Saturday in the FA Trophy 2nd round.