AARON Condon says he and his FC Clacton team-mates must stick together and prepare for an “absolute dogfight”.

The Seasiders were sucked into the Thurlow Nunn League premier division’s bottom three following Saturday’s crazy 4-3 defeat at home to Ely City.

Clacton led 2-0, thanks to excellent goals in quick succession from top-scorer Condon and Tom Holdstock.

Ely then pulled one back just before the break and nosed in front with two more – including an own goal – before the hour-mark.

Condon won and converted a late penalty to rescue what looked a share of the spoils.

But Ely goalkeeper Lee Pacey pumped forward a free-kick two minutes into stoppage time and was amazed to see the ball float straight into the Clacton net.

“We were absolutely gutted by the result,” said Condon. “It’s heartbreaking.

“How often do you score three goals and lose?

“It hardly ever happens.

“But’s it’s our own fault and not good enough.

“We were a first-half team but the game lasts for 90 minutes, not 45.

“Then, with two minutes left after the penalty, I can’t believe we didn’t see it out.

“But this is where the personalities come out because we’re in an absolute dogfight.

“We need to be there for each other.”