Long Eaton United 3
Holbeach United 2
Assistant boss Martyn Cundy had nothing but praise for his Holbeach United players despite seeing them knocked out of The FA Buildbase Vase on Saturday.
The Tigers were beaten 3-2 at Midlands League Premier Division outfit Long Eaton, as their bid to reach Wembley stalled at the second round stage.
All looked to be going well for Holbeach – who were bossed by number two Cundy in the absence of player/boss Tom Roberts – as they took the lead on 14 minutes at Grange Park through Stacy Cartwright.
He lashed home low following a great run from an inspired Aaron Eyett, who had one of his best games to date.
However, two quick goals from Rob McCormick, coupled with match-ending ankle injuries to Cartwright and Josh Ford, ensured the Tigers had their tails between their legs at half time.
Sub Jordan Thomas did haul Holbeach level in the second period with a deflected drive, but a towering header from Shaun Rickford gave hosts Long Eaton the victory.
Although never happy with a defeat, Cundy admitted that he couldn’t fault his players after the Derbyshire defeat.
“It was a good performance,” said the former Moulton Harrox chief. “We were very unlucky not to get a draw and bring them back to our place for a replay.
“Long Eaton are a good side, they’ve recently brought in a few new players and it showed. But we matched them and I felt we deserved better – it was unfair.
“Obviously we’re all disappointed to go out of the Vase. But I can’t fault the lads.
“Afterwards there was no sense of despondency, the guys all seemed to be as happy as you can be after a defeat.
“I thought Aaron Eyett, in particular, had perhaps his best game this season.
“They were terrified of him running at them and he did a lot of damage. He was a big influence on the game and hopefully that’ll continue.”
Holbeach are back in ChromaSport UCL Premier Division action on Wednesday night. They visit rock-bottom Huntingdon Town (7.45pm).
Tigers: Drury, Walton, A Jackson, N Jackson, Stevens, Tinkler, Muldrew (Warfield 60), Cartwright (Thomas 30), Eyett, Ford (Wright 35), Treacher. Not used: Cundy.
Attendance: 85.
