A Bridge too far

With the rainwater receding and winter gripping football grounds across the country, Bamber Bridge and Rushden & Diamonds were finally able to contest their postponed FA Trophy First Round tie at Irongate.

There was to be Cup heartbreak, however, for the hosts, who were dumped out of the competition in a 3-2 defeat by the Conference heavyweights from Northamptonshire.

Despite the result, Bamber Bridge boss Phil Entwhistle was full of praise for his side, who sit third in the Unibond Division One North.

"I thought the lads equipped themselves really well," he said.

"I believe our performance was worth at least a draw. As far as our lads are concerned, I think they did brilliantly. It’s a shame - but it may have been one game too far.

"Today, over the 90 minutes, we were equal to them. We were as fit as them and still running at the end. We gave them a scare. That is as tough a game as they'll have all season, I am sure," he continued.

With promotion a real possibility for Bamber Bridge, Entwhistle admits their cup adventures may have an adverse effect on League affairs.

"When we were knocked out of the FA Cup by Histon we went on to lose our next two League games," he explained.

"I have told the lads not to be down. We now have to kick on and take those performances into our League campaign. If we can play like that, then I think we will keep improving."

Bamber captain Alex Porter led by example for the hosts, netting twice in the first half to give his side a 2-1 advantage at the interval.

Rushden, who are suffering indifferent League form - and who will value a good Cup run - raised the tempo in the second half, netting twice before the hour mark to keep the Wembley dream alive.