CONCORD Rangers have been left devastated after it was confirmed the Beach Boys cannot compete in this season's National League South play-offs.

Sammy Moore's side booked their place in the division's top seven - barring a major goal-swing on the final day of the campaign - by recording a 2-1 win over St Albans City on Monday.

But the National League have notified Concord that they will be unable to participate in the play-offs due to their Aspect Arena home not having the minimum requirement of 500 seats.

In a club statement, Beach Boys chairman Ant Smith said: "The National League have confirmed that we are not permitted to compete in this year’s play-off games despite us giving full reassurance that we would have the additional seating required in place for the new season.

"The League inserted a new rule regarding the 500 seating, giving clubs two years to have them in place.

"But, unfortunately, this still conflicts with the play-off rule they have in place.

"I believe they need to review this further as again, like last year, they have put themselves in an embarrassing position as they have also removed the rule where they can promote the next team below into the play-off competition.

"Following my discussions with the League they had three options and decided to take the option that one team will now receive a bye to the next round of the play-offs.

"Although this is very disappointing for everyone involved at the club, we should be extremely proud of what Sammy, Jack (Midson), Darren (Beale), Dan (Scopes) and all the team and staff have achieved this season with virtually a totally new squad.

"Our objective was to maybe gain a top 10 finish, so the fact we have stayed in that position and above has been a fantastic accomplishment.

"We can now concentrate on plans for next season and set our sights on some new targets and objectives both on and off the field."

The news comes as a heavy blow to Concord, who have been one of the division's surprise packages since Moore replaced Adam Flanagan at the helm last summer.

It is reported that the club were made aware of the National League ruling back in February, but Moore decided against telling his players as he wanted to finish his first campaign in charge as high as possible in the standings.

Instead, the players were told of the inability to compete in the play-offs at training last night.

The National League's decision means that the side who were due to face the Beach Boys in the first round of the play-offs will now receive a bye and go straight through to the semi-finals.

Concord will finish their season with a trip to Eastbourne Borough tomorrow.