It wasn't to be for Barnstoneworth United who crashed out of the FFA Cup in the club's first ever game in the competition.
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Barnies travelled down to Sydney on Sunday where they went head-to-head with the Gladesville Ravens.
After 90 minutes of action, the scores remained level at 0-0. But then disaster struck, as the Ravens slotted home two goals in the extra 30 minute period to send the Orange side packing.
"We should have won the game but weren't as clinical in front of goal," Barnies coach Josh Ward said.
"Goals change games. Overall it was a pleasing performance and the quality of football was great.
"The lads work rate and fitness was exceptional for this stage of pre season. Could not fault the players, I am proud of the players and they represented the club superbly."
He added that the structure and combinations they are implementing at training are starting to come together in games.
"It's the first time most of the lads have ever played at this level so it was a great experience to play a higher level of football," he said.
"It will help our resilience and the minutes in the legs will hold them in good stead to know that they can play at a good intensity for the whole match.
"Everyone was obviously disappointed not to win but we see it as a learning curve and are grateful for the experience that we were fortunate enough to be a part of. "
Of those who stood out to him on the pitch, Ward highlighted Ethan Mackay's "exceptional" work at centre back as well as Ben Giumelli's effort in the midfield.
Barnies will now have to wait until next year for their next chance at FFA Cup glory.
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