Rustington exit Senior Cup

Blues fell behind early on, before they conceded late on at the end of each half but boss Brett Torode praised his side’s effort and said: “It was a bit one-sided but I couldn’t fault anyone for effort. The boys did really well and we didn’t disgrace ourselves.

“When we went down early on, I thought we could be looking at a cricket score but we battled away for the rest of the half and it was a shame they got a second just before half-time.

“We did well and competed in the second half but didn’t really create any chances.

“They were different class. I know they’re struggling in their league but the difference from their league to ours is just amazing and it was an eye-opener for some of our boys.”

Former Queens Park Rangers professional Richard Pacquette slid home the opener on four minutes and he headed home the second two minutes before half-time.

Borough then got their third in the last minute through George Purcell, who scrambled the ball over the line after Blues keeper Jack Bonetti had made a great save.

Torode praised Bonetti for his performance and said: “He had a great game and didn’t do himself any harm with his performance.

“I was also pleased with George Sayers, who is only 18. He stood up to everything well but it was a real battle for everyone just to keep with them.”

Blues are still involved in two cup competitions this season after progressing into the Division 2 Cup semi-finals on Saturday with an extra-time win over Bexhill (see page 101).

They are also in the last four of the John O’Hara Cup and meet Rye on March 15.

Blues do not have a game this weekend and their next fixture is on March 12 at home to Bexhill.

RUSTINGTON: Bonetti; Bennett, Neal, Sayers, Green; Boxall, Jones, Clayton, Hudson, Darwin; Huckett. Subs: Adams, O’Connor (Jones, Boxall 65), Butt (Bennett 75), Robertshaw, Woodward.