CHELMSFORD City fell short of promotion once again as they missed out through the play-offs.

The Clarets, who were beaten in the play-off final last season, were defeated 1-0 at Melbourne Park by Hampton & Richmond Borough.

Borough had beaten Truro City in the quarter-finals last week to set up the clash, with Rod Stringer’s team sent straight through to the last four after they finished the National League South season in third position.

But a second half penalty from Max Kretzschmar was enough for Hampton to set up a final encounter against Braintree Town, who defeated Dartford against the odds.

Jazzi Barnum-Bobb was sent off for handball in the run up to the award of the penalty, and the 10 man Clarets couldn’t force an equaliser.

The hosts began in the ascendency and could have led as early as eight minutes.

Jonny Giles’ cross was met by Scott Fenwick but his dangerous header clipped the crossbar and went over.

The pressure intensified. Bradley Hudson-Odoi was forced to clear the ball off the line.

Kudus Oyenuga and Chris Dickson also threatened although a Giles slip almost let in Hampton up the other end.

But Chelmsford were much the better side in the opening 45 minutes.

Eight minutes into the second period the game changed.

Barnum-Bobb was shown a straight red card and Kretzschmar was clinical from 12 yards.

A flurry of changes followed and although the hosts had a late effort cleared off the line the equaliser was not forthcoming.