Debenham LC look to put FA Vase disappointment behind them with Suffolk Senior Cup tie

Debenham LC bowed out of one competition in frustrating circumstances last weekend, but tomorrow will provide them with another opportunity in a different cup.

Guy Hayes’ Thurlow Nunn League First Division North Hornets gave a very good account of themselves during Saturday’s trip to higher-league Kirkley & Pakefield in the second round qualifying of the Buildbase FA Vase.

And it looked as though they were going to be rewarded until the hosts were given a dubious 90th-minute penalty, which Kaiden Goldspink converted to seal a 1-0 win for Premier Division Kirkley.

However, Debenham must now put that disappointment behind them ahead of tomorrow’s clash against Brantham Athletic Reserves in the opening round of the Suffolk Senior Cup (3pm).

Boss Hayes said: “I am still a bit gutted. To lose to a 90th-minute penalty that should not have been given – even the Kirkley player admitted that – is so disappointing.

“It is a real hammer blow but there are also a lot of positives to take. We have given a very good account of ourselves against a Premier Division side and taken them all the way.

“It says a lot about the character and ability in the squad – I am dead proud of them.

“But now we focus on the Senior Cup because it is a competition that a club like Debenham should be looking to win.

“The final is normally at Portman Road which is obviously a big attraction and there is no reason why we cannot challenge for it.

“We are a good side and can match anyone on our day. Going far in the competition will keep our season alive and that was one of the targets we set in the summer.”

Louie Bloom and Matt Poxon will both return to the Debenham squad after missing the Kirkley clash but Will Seccombe (university) and Brad Austin (suspended) miss out.