Banstead Athletic missed the chance to haul themselves to the comfort of mid-table when they crashed to a 3-0 defeat at fellow strugglers Reading Town on Saturday.

Despite making a promising start Banstead fell foul of the referee just before half-time when a controversial handball decision allowed the home side to take the lead.

Banstead continued to battle but were punished for a couple of defensive mistakes in the second half as Reading ran out comfortable winners.

Athletic must now switch attention to this Saturday when they are given the perfect opportunity to get back on track when basement boys Dorking visit Merland Rise.

And manager Dave Leworthy will no doubt hope that Banstead can continue their recent run of three victories in their last four home games.