WHITSTABLE Town slipped to their 18th defeat of the season last night when they lost 3-0 away at play-off contenders Fleet Town.

The Oystermen battled well in the first half but went in for their interval cuppa' trailing 2-0 after goals from Dan Reed, 35 minutes, and James Field, 43, had put the home side in control.

"The players were gutted to go in behind at the break," said Whitstable manager Mark Munday.

The second half was also a close affair, but Eddie Smith's 68th minute strike confirmed all three points for the home side.

Munday said: "We did very, very well, despite the result.

"Both sides created chances but the difference was that Fleet took theirs.

"Overall I think we competed well."

The result leaves Whitstable third from bottom, although they have three games in hand on both the sides immediately above and below them.

This Saturday they face a Kent derby when they host Chipstead at the Belmont.

Then, on Tuesday, the Oystermen travel to take on title contenders Croydon Athletic.