Stringer Struggling As ‘Best Team Lost’ South Semi Final

It was more agony for Chelmsford City, bowing out again after last season falling in the final to Ebbsfleet.

Yesterday’s 1-0 home defeat to Hampton means it’s the Beavers who progress and next weekend they host Braintree Town for the right to win promotion.

But for Stringer and the Clarets it is more disappointment. Playing most of the second half with ten men following Jazzi Barnum-Bobb’s red card, the all-important moment gave Hampton their big chance.

The resulting penalty was smashed in my Max Kretzschmar and Alan Dowson’s side held firm.

Stringer said his team deserved more from the afternoon in the sun.

“Congratulations to Hampton, to Dowse and his side who have had another great year but I think they will know the best team has lost,” said the Chelmsford manager.

“First half, before the sending off, we were fantastic. We hit the bar twice had a couple off the line and their goalkeeper had pulled off some outstanding saves.

“Ours hardly touched the ball all afternoon -except of course having the pick the penalty out of his net. It is hard to take losing in that kind of situation.

“It’s harsh, but we know that’s how the play-offs work. We have been brilliant these last few months and we know the feeling after last year.”

He added: “I don’t think the referee has had the best of games, and our fans’ reaction at full-time gives that away.

“But we’re gutted. We have given it everything we have got but we haven’t been able to get over the line.”