Maidstone's Ryman under-21 play-off at Grays was abandoned after a half-time row in the tunnel - a decision boss Jack Parkinson described as embarrassing.

South champions Stones were leading North winners Grays 2-0 through goals from Liam King and Ben Greenhalgh on Wednesday night when the referee called a halt.

The fracas followed a poor challenge on Greenhalgh just before half-time that earned a booking.

Parkinson said: "There was a bit of pushing and shoving. It was all over by the time the referee came up the tunnel.

"I'm stood there talking to their manager and the referee's blown his whistle and abandoned the game. It was embarrassing.

"I'm not condoning what went on but it was no more than handbags. It was no different to what goes on all the time.

"Both teams were happy to carry on with the game. It was a total waste of an evening."

Ryman League secretary Kellie Discipline said: "The league are investigating the events of Wednesday night and will inform the clubs of our findings once a decision has been made."

The second leg, to decide the overall Ryman under-21 winners, was due to be played at the Gallagher Stadium on Saturday.