Team Northumbria’s Northumberland Senior Cup run came to a disappointing end after a narrow defeat to Blyth Town at Coach Lane.
TN battled hard in the cold conditions and at times looked far better in possession than the visitors.
But the hosts were unable to convert their chances and could probably call themselves unlucky to fall to a 2-1 defeat.
“The result’s hard to take,” said TN manager Colin Stromsoy. “It’s a game of fine margins and unfortunately we were the losing side.
“We were not at our best defensively during stages of the match - they had one free-kick and a corner and we conceded two goals.
“Our ball retention was superior – for long stages of the game we looked like we’d go on and get the win but it wasn’t to be.
“For the majority of the tie we were good and perhaps the stronger side but we have to learn to deal with the problems we face.
“We had some chances to pull the game back and we didn't take them – our finishing has to be better and we’ve got to be ruthless.”
Despite Stromsoy’s disappointment, the TN manager remained positive about his side's performance and attitude throughout the game.
“Our start to the second half was outstanding,” he added. “Our combinations and passages of play were excellent.
“The keeper pulled off an outstanding save to deny Nick Green right before half time which could’ve changed the game.
“Then right after the break Nick’s header put us back in the tie and I genuinely believed we’d go on to win.
“But sometimes you get nights like that – our system was unbalanced for a number of reasons which hasn’t helped.
“I’m absolutely devastated but I’ve got no complaints about the performance and the way we’ve conducted ourselves out there.
“The lads showed enormous character and I’m immensely proud of them.”
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