Jake Buckland takes on two defenders.

BARNSTON tasted the bitterness of defeat for the first time under the new management after being dumped out of the Border League Knockout Cup in the first round.

Lee Elliston’s team lacked “invention, ideas and pace” as Tollesbury put three goals past them at High Easter Road to proceed in the competition and the expense of the hosts.

For Barnston it could be the wake up call they needed

“The result may serve as a reality check,” said Elliston. “After a good start in the league some players may feel the hard work is done but I know that we are not where we need to be.

“We didn’t apply the good habits we are getting into - our work rate, energy and tempo was poor throughout and the pressure we put on them was not good enough.

“I will take the positives from it, though. We moved the ball around the pitch as well as we could and we kept possession well in patches.”

Tollesbury’s visit was the “first real test” for the new-look Barnston, and Elliston said it was “disappointing” to fall at the first hurdle.

The game kicked off later than scheduled after Tollesbury unbelievably forgot their kit. 40 minutes later than planned, the game was underway and it only took another 10 minutes for the visitors to grab the lead – Corin Haines tapping home from close range.

The lead was doubled five minutes after the half when Jamie Bright finished off a solo run with a neat goal.

Facing a two goal deficit, Barnston began the fight back but it was too little too late as the Tollesbury defence was well organised and dealt with any threat on goal.

As Elliston’s side pressed for an opening, a counter attack and a penalty sealed their fate. Nathan Jones was brought down in the box by Patrick D’Angelo as he tried to get back. Simon Jones stepped up to bury the spot kick and advance his team to the second round.

“I do not put to much emphasis on cup games,” added Elliston.

“Whilst it’s nice to keep results going its all about what happens on the day, a poor performance and your out and that’s where we find ourselves. We have to re-group, work hard, put things right and bounce back.”

Barnston welcome Coggeshall Town to High Easter Road on Saturday, 3pm KO.