BILLERICAY Town dropped out of the National League South play-off places after suffering a 3-1 defeat to Hampton & Richmond Borough at the AGP Arena.

Billericay made a bright start as Jack Paxman’s long range drive clattered against the post.

However, the visitors took the lead with just eight minutes on the clock as Ruel Sotiriou converted from the penalty spot.

And matters got worse for Harry Wheeler’s side four minutes later as Rian Bray doubled Hampton’s advantage moments after Billericay defender Joe Kizzi had seen a headed goal ruled out.

Billericay gave themselves hope as Moses Emmanuel halved the deficit.

But Alan Julian was shown a second yellow card and Danny Waldren, who donned the gloves after the goalkeeper’s dismissal, was beaten late on by Zak Joseph.