Canvey maintained their play-off push and sent Leatherhead back into the relegation zone in the process.

But it was the Tanners who took the lead on 34 minutes when Elliott Thompson latched onto an under-hit back pass from Steve Sheehan.

Canvey keeper James Russell saved the initial effort, but the rebound fell to Thompson who was able to tap into an empty net.

The hosts responded well and equalised on 42 minutes thanks to a goal from Ashley Dumas direct from a corner for the second match in succession.

After a fairly even first half the Gulls started to dominate proceedings in the second.

They took the lead on 61 minutes when a backwards header from defender Dan Dean looped over keeper Chico Ramos and into the net.

And Canvey sealed victory on 74 minutes when some good build up play, starting with Jason Hallett, presented substitute Alex Rhodes with an opportunity.

Rhodes’ shot was heading wide but Leon Gordon was on hand to slide the ball home, despite protests that he may have been offside.

The win leaves Canvey two points away from the final play-off place, while Leatherhead are now three points behind Hastings with two matches to play.