The pitch at Canvey Island is thought to be the only one in the country beneath sea level and Scarborough were below par as they sunk to a 1-0 defeat.

The team has just one draw to show from their last nine away games -- but this was a game for the winning.

Former West Ham player Lee Boylan scored a spectacular fourth-minute volley -- but thereafter Boro dominated only to be limp and lifeless in front of goal.

It was all too familiar and depressing for Boro coach Nicky Henry, who needs a proven finisher.

"Obviously I know what is wrong and I shall be looking for a striker who can have that bit of devil in the area," he said.

With Canvey protecting their lead, which meant Conference safety, and Boro running out of ideas the game died on its feet.

Match facts:

Nationwide Conference

Canvey Island 1, Scarborough 0

(at Park Lane)

Canvey Island; Potter, Smith, Theobold, Sterling, Midgley, McGhee, Berquez (Williamson 87) Sedgemore, Duffy, Gregory, Boylan (McDougald 84).

Scarborough: Walker, Cryan, Lyth, Hotte, Thompson, (Pounder 71), Bishop, Kerr, Nicholson (Coulson 79), Hackworth, Senior, Reeves (Redfearn 42).

Referee: M Harris (Lincs).

Attendance: 510.

Updated: 10:45 Monday, April 18, 2005