HORNDEAN manager Michael Birmingham was proud of his players after their impressive run in the FA Vase came to an end with a 2-1 defeat at Hamble Club.

Miles Everett’s goal gave the Deans the lead in the Third Round tie, but goals from Mo Nyang and Nathan Lynch turned the game on its head and sealed Hamble’s place in the next round.

Despite the defeat, Birmingham was pleased with his side’s efforts.

He said: “We went 1-0 up, thanks to a wonderful strike from Miles, and we were in total cruise control.

“We marshalled Hamble’s long balls well and our midfield were dominating the second balls.

“We created a lot of chances, and Ben Johnson had an effort cleared off the line in the first half.

“Unfortunately, they caught us with an equaliser just before half time, and it completely changed the half time team talk.

“They got the winner in the second half, but we have done ever so well in the Vase.”

The Deans earned some impressive wins in the FA Vase this season, winning 4-3 at home to Andover Town in the First Qualifying Round, 2-0 away to Knaphill in the Second Qualifying Round, 1-0 away to Portland United in the First Round Proper, and 3-2 at home to Royal Wootton Bassett Town in the Second Round Proper.

Birmingham is pleased with his side’s run.

He added: “The lads have done it the right way, keeping the ball on the floor.”