Sheppey United joint-boss Ian Batten reacts to 2-0 FA Cup third qualifying round home defeat against Chertsey Town

Ian Batten felt the better team lost as Sheppey United exited this season’s FA Cup at the hands of higher-division Chertsey Town on Saturday.

The Isthmian South East Ites, who had seen off Kennington, Rusthall, Redhill and Snodland to reach this stage, fell behind when first-half away substitute Bradley Wilson broke the deadlock in the second period before midfielder Seb Bowerman converted a controversial late penalty as it ended 2-0 at Holm Park.

Chertsey, not only play one division higher than Sheppey, they’re even challenging for promotion from Southern League Premier Division South, but an upset could have been on the cards if the hosts had taken their chances in front of a 568-strong attendance.

Reacting after the third qualifying round tie, United joint-manager Batten said: “The better team lost on the day.

“If you were to get the stats - the amount of good opportunities and the amount of times we got into their penalty area - that would have outweighed the amount of good opportunities they had.

“But at the end of the day, the score reads 2-0 and it’s a tough one to take. As I say, I felt we were really good on the day.

“We just couldn’t put the ball in the back of the net.”

While centre-back Josh Wisson got caught under a long ball for the visitors’ opener, it was referee Morgan Conn’s decision to award Chertsey a spot-kick in the last minutes of normal time which aggrieved Batten more.

“The second goal was key,” said Batten, who saw man-of-the-match defender Harlain Mbayo get cautioned as he continued his protests with the assistant referee after Bowerman had converted from 12 yards.

“I thought it was a disgraceful decision! I don’t like to have a pop at referees because it’s a tough job and they only get a