A LATE goal from Steve Brown broke Salisbury hearts as they were beaten 2-1 by Chesham United at the Ray Mac in Southern League Premier South.

Calvin Brooks opened the scoring for the Whites after just seven minutes against the Generals, before Jordan Gibbons responded to level.

And it was Brown who bagged the winner to overcome Salisbury – sending Brian Dutton’s side 11th in the table and five places off the play-off spots.

Boss Dutton made three changes for his side’s clash against Chesham, one of which included a first start for new signing Lucas Tomlinson.

The 21-year-old arrived following his release from Gloucester City, having come through the academy at Bristol Rovers.

Speaking about his new recruit, manager Dutton said: “Lucas is an exciting young attacking winger that I’ve worked with at Bristol Rovers. I’m looking forward to seeing him join the squad and see him grow with Salisbury FC.”

And with Tomlinson in the side for the hosts, they started the contest in impressive fashion.

Tomlinson’s corner was perfect for former Weymouth man Brooks to tap in from close range and break the deadlock.

But Chesham, who occupy a spot in the play-off places themselves, hit back less than 10 minutes later.

Gibbons let fly from range to beat Salisbury keeper Gerard Benfield after Seokjae Lee had misplaced a pass.

Both sides continued to battle and it was Salisbury who almost found a winner with six minutes remaining.

Tomlinson continued to cause problems and his cross from the left was met by the head of Ben Thomson – the striker was unable to hit the target with his headed effort at goal.

But Chesham sealed all three points from the contest deep into stoppage time. A corner swung in found the leap of Brown, who got above his defenders to nod in the winner.

Salisbury have seven wins from their 17 league contests this season – having picked up 22 points in the process.

They host Yate Town at the Ray Mac on Saturday (3pm).

Salisbury: Benfield, C Brooks, Sommerton, Roberts, Gillela, Carmichael, Yang, Lawrence, Lee (Ashton), Tomlinson (Arnold), Fitchett (Thomson)

Unused subs: Wakefield, Gunstone-Gray (g/k).