Birchwoood United 3
Moulton Harrox 2
Dave Panton has told his Moulton Harrox side to bounce back after seeing them suffer their first defeat of the season on Saturday.
Harrox were upset 3-2 at Birchwood United in the Lincs FA Junior Cup – Panton’s first loss since taking over as boss in the summer.
Having reached the final last year, Moulton were among the favourites this time around. But, despite leading 2-1 at one stage, they have crashed out at the first hurdle.
On a narrow pitch, Moulton struggled to deal with Birchwood’s long ball approach and found themselves 1-0 down at half time following a soft penalty.
The second half saw Harrox emerge much improved – and goals from Aris Placis and Joe Townsend saw them move 2-1 ahead.
However, two mistakes at the back cost Moulton dear and five minutes later they were 3-2 down.
Panton’s lads threw everything at their hosts late on, but couldn’t find a leveller.
“It was a bad day at the office,” said Panton. “We didn’t play well but still should have won.
“Their goals were very disappointing to concede.
“The best thing to take from the game was the lads’ attitude. They all apologised and I hope we will learn quickly and bounce straight back – which I have insisted on for next week’s league match.
“Everybody trips, it’s how fast you get up that counts and I will make sure we get up quickly.
“Congratulations to Birchwood, I wish them well.”
Moulton: Kenealy, Groves, Cardell, Hall, Patterson, King (c), Maltby, Placis (Wheeler), Townsend, Bradbury, Abell.
Sat: Harrox v Riverside.
