THERE was certainly a feeling of deflation around Love Lane on Saturday evening.

Petersfield Town gave a good account of themselves against National League South outfit St Albans City. But there was a sense that this had been a missed opportunity in some regards.

The Rams had some great chances in the first half and, had it not been for St Albans’ keeper Joe Welch, they may well have gone on to record another famous victory.

However, in the second half there was the sense that the visitors used the experience which came from their higher status to snuff out any threat from Petersfield’s attacks.

Assistant manager Jason Hampson, who took charge of the team with Ian Saunders away on business, said afterwards: “I’m so gutted for the players, but they all put in a mighty shift against a team two leagues above them. We need to stay positive now and get up for the next match.”