RYMAN ONE NORTH: Canvey's Concord Rangers saw their bid to win promotion to the top level Premier Division in their first season as a Ryman Club end in heartache.

They were beaten 5-4 in a penalty shoot-out by the Abbotts, who now join champions Aveley in playing in the top-flight next term.

Concord, after a disappointing opening-half performance, had taken a 60th minute lead through a scrambled effort from substitute Fabian Batchelor, on loan from Grays Athletic.

But Harry Elmes levelled 13 minutes from the end to take the play-off final into added time.

With neither side being able to break the deadlock in the extra 30 minutes the promotion issue was settled on penalties.

Concord were up against it when Kevin Watson's first spot-kick was saved by home goalkeeper Richard Hayward.

Abbey scored their first four penalties and Rangers their next four and the visitors were given a lifeline when their goalkeeper Dale Brightly, who made some important stops throughout, kept out Abbott's fifth, taken by home skipper Lee White.

So the tie went to sudden-death and Hayward again did well to keep out substitute Jack Carlile's effort.

So Abbey striker Billy Holland, two years ago a beaten play-off finalist with Billericay Town, stepped-up to be the hero of the hour by shooting his side into the Premier Division.