Folkestone Invicta manager Jay Saunders reacts to 4-1 FA Cup fourth quaifying round defeat at Southend United

Folkestone manager Jay Saunders was disappointed by the manner of the goals in their FA Cup exit at Southend.

Invicta, having already knocked out two Step 2 sides, were aiming to sink their National League hosts but three goals in 17 first-half minutes sent them tumbling to a 4-1 defeat.

“I wouldn't say we were blown away,” said Saunders. “I thought we started okay but the first goal killed us.

“Southend are a better side than us, no doubt about it, but what frustrated me was the manner we've conceded the four goals.

“I think two or three of them are from three yards out, crosses into the box, nine times out of 10 we deal with, the fourth one is a deflection.

“I'm not saying they didn't have other chances, but when you come here, things like that, you need to stop.

“We need to defend balls into the box better but they were good first half and were worth the win.

“I was pleased second half with our reaction. We said to the boys ‘go out and win the second half and give our fans something to cheer about’ and I was pleased we got that goal.

“If we’d got another goal then you never know but, like I say, Southend are a very good side and showed their quality.

“Probably if we had played at home, we maybe get a better chance but coming here, they’re full-time and it’s a big club.”

Folkestone gave Southend too much space in the first half, the hosts were able to work the ball comfortably out of defence.

Saunders pointed out it was a new experience for the younger members of his squad.

“We probably showed them a bit too much respect,” added Saunders. “But if you're looking at the second half, it was the same players out there and they’ve gone out and had a go.

“In the first half, we probably showed them too much respect. We stood