DESPITE finishing the season in sixth place, Concord Rangers will not compete in the National League South play-offs.

The Beach Boys brought the curtain down on an impressive campaign by recording a 2-1 victory over Eastbourne Borough.

Connor Essam and Joan Luque grabbed the Concord goals, while Josh Bingham scored the hosts’ consolation, but the National League have notified Sammy Moore’s side that they will be unable to participate in the play-offs due to their Aspect Arena home not having the minimum requirement of 500 covered 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.”

Concord went into the final day having been hit by the news that they would not be able to extend their season.

But the Beach Boys reacted to the hammer blow in perfect fashion as they made history.

Concord registered a record 70 points and enjoyed the highest placing in the club’s history by coming out on top at Eastbourne.

Having already seen a goal chalked off for offside, the Beach Boys broke the deadlock soon after the half hour mark.

Eastbourne goalkeeper Sam Howes failed to hold onto a dangerous cross and Essam was on hand to poke the ball home.

And Concord doubled their advantage just two minutes later as Luque added his name to the scoresheet after being found by Danny Green.

Eastbourne halved the deficit soon after the interval through Bingham, but Concord held on to triumph.