HUW GRIFFITHS failed to hide his disappointment as Cefn Druids contrived to lose a "nothing game" against Carmarthen Town 1-0.
An enterprising first-half made way for a second period that "died a death" and the two teams, battling it out for ninth place, looked on course to play out a goalless draw.
But Druids' defender Nathan Peate made a defensive error and as he tried to rectify his mistake he handled Liam Thomas's goal-bound shot.
Referee Tom Owen had no hesitation in pointing to the spot and Thomas calmed dispatched the penalty to hand Carmarthen a victory, which moves them above Druids on goal difference.
Druids boss Griffiths said: "I'm disappointed. It was a nothing game in which we were the better side during the first-half and created a few chances.
"The second-half died a death and it looked as though it was going to finish goalless.
"But Nathan made a mistake and then couldn't get out of the way of a shot.
"It was blasted at him from five yards, but I've got no complaints."
Druids will conclude their campaign on Friday at Llandudno, who made sure they have avoided finishing rock-bottom by beating fellow strugglers Llanelli 4-0.
Sameron Dool and George Harry scored in the first-half, before Yalani Baio struck a double after the break to secure Llandudno's victory.
Llandudno, meanwhile, are on the lookout for a new permanent manager after Iwan Williams confirmed that he would not be returning to the post next season.
A statement from the club read: "The club wishes Iwan and his family well outside of football, and hope that his personal circumstances improve off the field."
Cardiff Met wrapped up their place in the play-offs by beating their rivals for seventh spot, Aberystwyth Town, 1-0.
An own goal from Declan Walker handed Cardiff Met the three points, which meant that the capital-based side will face either Caernarfon or Newtown in the race for the final Europa League spot.
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