CUP EXIT LEAVES THREE BRIDGES FACING QUESTIONS

Three Bridges FC crashed out of the FA Cup at the first qualifying round stage after a disappointing 1-0 defeat to Kingstonian at Jubilee Field on Friday night.

In a game that lacked quality for long periods, it was the visitors who showed the greater desire and determination to battle their way through to a well-deserved cup upset. Bridges, meanwhile, struggled to find any rhythm or attacking threat and will be left asking serious questions about their performance and desire to progress in the competition.

The first half was largely one to forget for the hosts, who looked lethargic and flat from the opening whistle. Kingstonian were the livelier side and tested Sam Roberts in the Bridges goal whenever the opportunity arose, forcing the goalkeeper into two smart saves inside the opening 20 minutes.

Bridges’ first real opportunity arrived in the 31st minute when Ilic delivered a dangerous free-kick into the area which evaded everyone and struck the crossbar.

However, Kingstonian continued to win most of the battles across the pitch and looked the more committed side. Rocky Williams came close to breaking the deadlock shortly before the interval when his thunderous effort flew narrowly wide.

The teams went into the break level at 0-0, but a significant reaction was expected from Bridges in the second half, particularly with the hosts facing opposition from a league below.

Unfortunately, that reaction never really materialised.

Bridges enjoyed more control of the game after the restart but struggled to turn possession into meaningful chances. Their best opportunity arrived in the 73rd minute when the ball fell kindly to Kevin Rivera inside the penalty area, but his first-time strike sailed over the crossbar.

That let-off appeared to give Kingstonian renewed energy and they immediately began to threaten again. Williams struck the post in the 79th minute as the visitors sensed that a cup upset was within their grasp.

Two minutes later, Kingstonian got the reward their performance deserved.

The opening goal came after Jamie Watson pulled out of a 50-50 challenge on the halfway line, allowing the visitors to break forward. With no Bridges player able to track back and match the urgency of the attack, Stan Flaherty was left with a simple finish to put Kingstonian 1-0 ahead and send the travelling supporters into raptures.

Things then went from bad to worse for Bridges.

Captain Noel Leighton, who had been struggling with an injury, allowed his frustration to get the better of him and was shown a second yellow card, leaving the hosts with 10 men for the closing stages.

Kingstonian almost put the result beyond doubt in added time when Kelmendi found himself with the opportunity to double the lead, but his effort struck the crossbar.

The final whistle confirmed a hugely disappointing night for Three Bridges, who bowed out of the FA Cup at the first hurdle with a 1-0 defeat.

For a side looking to establish themselves in the Isthmian Premier, the manner of the performance will be particularly concerning. Kingstonian showed greater hunger, commitment and willingness to win the crucial battles, and ultimately that proved decisive.

Bridges must now quickly put the disappointment behind them and turn their full attention back to the Isthmian Premier League. Jamie Crellin’s side travel to St Albans on Saturday 12th September before heading to Whitehawk just three days later on Tuesday 15th September.

After Friday night’s performance, the supporters will be demanding a reaction.

THREE BRIDGES FC LINE-UP

Roberts, Ferreira, Watson (Irving 83′), Bull, J. Hallard, Adeyinka, Bennet, Rivera, Velvick, Ilic (Villavicencio 52′), Leighton (C).

THREE BRIDGES PLAYER OF THE MATCH

Hayden Velvick

The only outfield player on the night who consistently looked like he wanted to win, Velvick continues to be a shining light during what has been a difficult start to the season for Bridges.

His performance once again demonstrated the energy, determination and commitment that will be required from everyone if Three Bridges are to turn their fortunes around. He is setting an example for his teammates to follow.