Ramsgate manager Ady Pennock’s reaction after 2-1 FA Cup second qualifying round defeat at Tonbridge Angels

Manager Ady Pennock felt the referee spoiled the game with his first-half dismissal of Raphe Brown as Ramsgate bowed out of the FA Cup at Tonbridge on Saturday.

Brown picked up two yellow cards in six minutes before half-time, leaving Pennock’s Isthmian Premier side a man down against their National League South opponents.

They battled gamely and were six minutes away from holding out for a 1-1 draw and a Tuesday night replay when Angels substitute Bunmi Babajide broke their resistance.

The second qualifying round tie had started well for the visitors, with Alfie Paxman scoring a 21st-minute penalty.

Jephte Tanga levelled before Brown, having just been booked for a foul on the goalscorer, received his second booking after a challenge on Frankie Baker in the box.

Bailey Akehurst missed the resultant penalty, keeping Ramsgate in the game, but they couldn’t hold out.

Pennock was proud of his team’s performance and wondered what might have been had referee Redmond Egan kept his cards in his pocket.

“The first one was a soft yellow and the second one, he gave a penalty and another yellow card, which I thought was harsh,” said Pennock.

“He spoilt the game, the referee. I thought it was a very good game before that. I’ve got to say, I thought we were absolutely excellent against a team that’s doing really well.

“We got loads of positives out of it. I know the result wasn’t what we wanted but I’m unbelievably proud of the boys.”

Pennock felt for Brown, who had been having a fine game at the back, describing him as a “Rolls-Royce”.

“He’s incredible, a great player,” added the manager.

Ten-man Ramsgate dug in without the former Maidstone defender in a display that did Pennock proud.

“I thought the 10 lads and the subs that came on