Manager Steve Lovell describes Herne Bay’s cup matches as a ‘nightmare’ after 6-1 FA Trophy thumping

Herne Bay boss Steve Lovell has described their cup matches as a “nightmare” after a heavy FA Trophy exit.

Bay suffered a 6-1 home defeat to Leatherhead in the competition on Saturday.

It came just seven days after they were knocked out of the FA Cup by Redhill at the First Qualifying Round stage.

With defender Harrison Pont serving a one-match suspension, player-coach Liam Friend, left-back Harry Brown and fellow defender Harrison Byford all came off before half-time with knocks against Leatherhead at Winch’s Field.

Bay got back into the tie when substitute Michael Salako made it 2-1, but four-goal Trevan Robinson ended any hopes of a home comeback.

“We had a few injuries during the game so we lost three players in the first half,” said Lovell, whose side have played four out of seven games so far in cup competitions.

“So we had to mix the team up and put players into positions that they don’t normally play.

“Getting back into the game at 2-1, it was disappointing how we conceded straight after. A needless free-kick was given away and their player has a free header in the box.

“Then, at 3-1, we’re trying to chase it, leave holes at the back and they’re a very good side. Against a good side, you’re going to struggle if you give them the opportunities that they had.

“It’s a bit of a step back for us, I’d say, but that’s sort of what these cup games are for us.

“We can get working on things and sort it before the league gets started again because these cups are a nightmare, really. I think they get in the way of things.

“It’s good if you can get through them but, if you don’t, you get your injuries - which we have now - and we’ve just got to get back on track.

“No one likes losing 6-1 at home. But, at 2-1, we were back in