Dagenham & Redbridge missed out on promotion to the Football League on goal difference despite beating Chester in their final game.

Two second-half goals from top scorer Mark Stein, his 23rd and 24th of the season, helped Garry Hill's side to a comfortable victory.

But leaders Boston, with a vastly superior goal difference, were crowned Conference champions after a 2-0 win at relegated Hayes.

Dagenham suffered a frustrating first half in their search for a breakthrough, Lee Goodwin heading Steve McGavin's corner against the post in the 39th minute.

Chester goalkeeper Wayne Brown also had to be alert moments earlier as he tipped over Steve West's long-range free-kick.

Stein put the Daggers ahead in the 61st minute, but with news of Boston's comfortable lead over Hayes filtering through to Victoria Road, the celebrations were understandably muted.

The former Luton striker grabbed his second in the 66th minute after being released by Junior McDougald.

And Tim Cole headed home a third late on, but it was all to no avail.

Despite beating Boston twice over the course of the season and losing two fewer games, a 19-goal difference ultimately separated Dagenham from the champions.

"We were third last year and second this time, so we can only hope to go one better next year," said manager Garry Hill.

"But the players are a credit to me and the club, and I am very proud of them."

Teams:

Dag & Red: Roberts, Goodwin, Smith, Janney, Terry, Jones, West, McGavin, McDougald, Stein, Shipp.
Subs: Broom, Cole, Charlery, Vickers, Gothard.

Chester: Wayne Brown, Lancaster, Michael Rose, Whittaker, Williams, Brabin, Blackburn, McGorry, Collins, David Brown, Carden.
Subs: Ruffer, Haarhoff, Woodyatt, Peacock, Spink.

Referee: K Woolmer (Northampton)