GRAYS Athletic's unbeaten run came to an end as they fell to a 2-0 Isthmian North defeat at Maldon & Tiptree.

Jamie Stuart's side claimed a late point at Bury Town last time out, as Kieran Bishop converted a penalty in the fifth minute of stoppage time.

But Grays' unbeaten run - which lasted six clashes - came to an end at Park Drive.

Maldon & Tiptree took the lead on 19 minutes after a superb through ball from Chris Millar landed at the feet of Ryan Clampin, who slid the ball home with his right foot.

And the Jammers were to double their advantage four minutes later as Joshua Pollard expertly flicked a Kieran Bailey free kick home.

Matters could have got worse for Grays as the hosts were awarded a penalty before the break. But Junior Ogedi-Uzokwe's spot kick was saved by Joe Simmonds.

Grays pushed for a way back into the game after the break, but Maldon & Tiptree were able to keep a clean sheet and move three points clear of Grays and into the play-off places.

Stuart's charges remain in 10th place in the Isthmian North standings.

Grays Athletic: Simmonds, Mahal (Brown 46'), Cross (Monsheju 67'), Cogan, Fowler, Halle (Bruce 58'), Muguo, Folkes, Cole, Bishop, Cole

>THURROCK'S Isthmian Premier League encounter at Folkestone Invicta was postponed due to Mark Stimson's side being unable to make the trip to Kent.

Traffic problems in the Ship Lane area resulted in it being impossible for the Thurrock players and management to reach Folkestone.