Dartford manager Ady Pennock proud of display in 3-1 FA Cup third qualifying round defeat at higher-division Worthing; Dulwich Hamlet in FA Trophy next up

Manager Ady Pennock was full of praise for Dartford’s FA Cup display - despite his team exiting the competition on Saturday.

The Darts went out at the third qualifying round stage at last term’s National League South play-off finalists Worthing, a second-half goal from forward Eddie Dsane proving in vain during their 3-1 loss.

But Pennock said: “That was one of the best performances I think we have put in. We were very unlucky.

“We have hit the woodwork four or five times, their keeper (Chris Haigh) has made some really good saves and we have missed some chances. Our energy levels were fantastic.

“The football that we played was very good. It’s all about the result in the FA Cup but, overall, I was so proud of them because they’re a good footballing side.

“We had a game-plan but their first goal was just an excellent strike. Sometimes in football, you just have to put your hand up and say ‘What a strike that was’ but, obviously, we were very disappointed with the second and third goals we conceded.

“Arguably, Jacob Marsden had to make some good saves, especially in the second half when we were 3-0 down and we gambled a little bit.

“But, when it went to 3-1, we hit the crossbar and hit the post and we were relentless. If we had scored another goal, it would have been an interesting finale.

"Overall, I’m very proud.”

Forward Danny Cashman gave the Rebels an early advantage and made it 2-0 from the penalty spot eight minutes into the second half after referee Charles Martland ruled he had been fouled by Marsden.

While Pennock had no complaints with the decision to award Worthing a spot-kick, he added: “The only complaint with that is we should have had a penalty in the first half when Eddie had his heels clipped in the box.