Welling 1 Thurrock 2

WELLING'S Conference South play-off hopes were dealt a blow on Thursday as Thurrock claimed all three points at Stonebridge Road.

The Wings had to use Gravesend's ground to play the match under floodlights - their third game in five days. A quiet first half was notable for one effort from either side on goal.

Steve Harper returned to the Welling side against his former club and saw his low drive turned away by keeper Max Aneke on 23 minutes.

Then, just before half-time, Thurrock's Cliff Akurang beat the offside trap but fired wide when well placed.

Thurrock created the better chances in the second half and took a deserved lead on 63 minutes. Wesley Thomas set up Mbiyeye Medine, who chipped keeper Jamie Turner.

Danny Kedwell sent a scorching 25-yard volley against the bar with 11 minutes left but shortly afterwards Welling equalised. Substitute Chris Moore forcing the ball in from close range.

Within two minutes, though, Thurrock were back in front. Thomas found space in the Welling penalty area and crossed for the unmarked Leon McKenzie to convert the winner.