Fleet's progress in the Bryco Cup was brought to a halt on Monday by high-flying, Ryman Premier Division leaders, Yeading.
With the west London visitors nine points clear of their division, and entertaining Newcastle next Sunday at Loftus Road in the FA Cup, this was also going to be a stern test for the Fleet side.
But with Yeading resting several first-teamers, including strikers, DJ Campbell and Erol Telemaque, Fleet were always in with a chance of progression to the last 16 of this league cup competition.
Both sides started briskly and both keepers were tested early on, with both sides playing some attractive passing football. Fleet's first chance came after 10 minutes, Lee Paul forcing a save from Yeading keeper, Delroy Preddie.
The Fleet front-man looked in prime form again, but disaster struck for him and Fleet when the 22 year-old was forced off with an ankle injury after only 24 minutes.
Two minutes later, wingman, Tinoi Christie went close with the first of several chances. But his shot was wide.
Then on the half-hour, Yeading took the lead from the penalty spot, after defender, Jermaine Hinds inexplicably handled the ball after a cross from the right. Bobby Behzadi made no mistake with the spot kick.
But Fleet were playing well and after the break continued to press for the equaliser.
On 65 minutes, sub striker, Richard Mealey could have made more of a good chance, after a great through ball put him clear of the Yeading back line. But the striker's shot was easily gathered by Preddie. Further chances to Christie and Francois also went begging, as Fleet continued to pile on the pressure.
A corner on 85 minutes almost did the trick, as defender, Steve Riley rose high above the defence, but his header went inches wide of the upright.
With the game slipping away, Fleet then conceded a late second goal after striker Marvin Morgan ran on to a loose ball, and had time to pick his spot past Fleet keeper, Justin Gray.
