Canvey Island soccer boss Jeff King rallied his vanquished troops with a "let's go out and win the league now" battle cry after seeing his side's latest money-spinning FA Cup run come to an end.
It's all over - Jeff King leaves the field at the end of the tie after seeing his Canvey side's FA Cup run halted by Southend United
Gulls' magnificent heroics in soccer's greatest domestic knockout event, which took them into the competition proper for a third time in four seasons, finished when Jay Smith's injury-time strike took visitors Southend United to a 3-2 win in last night's Park Lane first round replay.
The Islanders have enjoyed huge financial pickings and won countless new friends through their Cup exploits -- an all-ticket 2,317 crowd watched last night's action plus many more on SkySports' live screening.
Their earnings from this term alone have crashed through the £100,000 barrier.
And King was quick to point out: "I thought my players were magnificent tonight.
"Over the two games we've matched Southend all the way and again this evening probably had the better chances overall.
"But they've scored just at the wrong time as far as we're concerned.
"We've again come up against League opposition and matched them all the way.
"There's no way I'll have to try and lift my side for Saturday's big match as the players know they've given their all this evening and our fans have recognised that by giving them a fully-deserved tremendous ovation as they left the field."
For more on Ryman Premier League sides see our Ryman Premier League section
Published Thursday November 20, 2003
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article