Hungerford Town's play-off hopes are hanging by a thread in National League South

Hungerford Town's play-off hopes are hanging by a thread after they crashed to their fourth straight defeat in National League South on Saturday.

A month ago, wins at Chelmsford and Ebbsfleet United had lifted in-form Town up to seventh place – the final play-off spot.

But since then, Crusaders have lost to St Albans, Oxford City and Bath City, and on Saturday they were beaten 2-0 at Hampton and Richmond to leave them in 12th place, five points behind seventh-placed Havant & Waterlooville.

They can still do it, but it's a real long shot now.

That, however, should not detract from what has been a tremendous season for the West Berks club, who have consistently punched above their weight.

And manager Danny Robinson said: "In all honesty, it's one of my proudest achievements in football – to keep Hungerford in the National League is massive.

"We have worked our behinds off to get in this position and have never looked like being dragged into the relegation fight.

"Nicky and Patrick [Chambers] and particularly all of the players deserve the credit.

"We got ourselves into a good position in the table so to lose four games in a row is a bit of a reality check.

"But we are under no pressure going into our last three games – we can enjoy them and see what happens.

"We will be going out to win every game – the fat lady is not singing just yet!"

Robinson added: "To be honest a few of the lads looked a bit leggy and I'm certainly ready for a break.

"It's been a tough two years because of Covid and once the season is over I'm looking forward to having a bit of a rest."

Despite Saturday's defeat, Robinson was happy with his side's display at Hampton.

They were beaten by two first-half penalties and the Hungerford boss said: "One was a penalty, but the other definitely wasn't.

"We have had some penalties and decisions go our way this season, but that was a clear dive

"We missed five or six good chances to win the game, but we just couldn't take our chances."

Crusaders will have to be on song on Saturday when they host Welling United at Bulpit Lane.

Welling are second from bottom and in a desperate battle to beat the drop.

Robinson said: "We have beaten them twice already this season, but they are fighting for their lives and it won't be easy."