Lewes slipped to a first defeat in five games after a 3-2 reverse at Hayes.
The Rooks were the better side for much of the first period but still went in 2-0 down at the interval.
Clement James gave the home side a lead on 25 minutes and nine minutes later Kieron Knight bundled home a second from close range.
After the break a Lee Newman header reduced the deficit on 48 minutes and when Barrington Belgrave swivelled to fire home an equaliser Steven King's men looked set for a fantastic victory.
However, Hayes grabbed a winner when a long throw caused confusion in the visiting defence and skipper Matt Gray headed home.
Despite an all out assault on the home goal in the last quarter, the Rooks could not find another leveller.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article