AS BASINGSTOKE Town looked to push for a play-off spot in the Southern Premier League, they were brushed aside by fellow promotion chasers Merthyr Town on Saturday.

The visitors claimed three points and three goals at the Camrose as the Welsh side climb up the table.

The Dragons started the game the better side, with Dan Bayliss having the first big chance of the game as he flicked a header just wide from Ben Wright’s corner.

Wright then hit the post after good build up play from Sam Deadfield and Sam Argent linking up together.

Argent had the chance to put the home side ahead as he nipped in front of his marker but the ball went just wide.

With momentum on their side, the hosts looked most likely to break the deadlock and nearly did through Jack McKnight, but his shot deflected just wide of the keepers net.

As half-time approached it looked like it would be 0-0 at the break but with minutes left Kieran Lewis made the home side pay and put Merthyr ahead.

This goal spurred the visitors on as they came out in the second period refreshed, with Lewis forcing Colm McAdden in the Town goal into an early save.

However, it wasn’t long before Merthyr doubled the score line, this time in a controversial fashion.

It looked like Shane Hollamby was in control of the situation and was shoved to the floor by Lee Lucas who then got onto the end of the ball and put it past the onrushing keeper, despite appeals the goal stood.

Ryan Prosser finished the game off for the travelling fans as good build up play saw him get on to a low cross and tap it in at the far post.