BARNTON boss Steve Lloyd has demanded a reaction from his players after describing the Villagers’ FA Vase exit at Ashton Town on Saturday as ‘unacceptable’.

They visit Abbey Hey in a league fixture tomorrow, Tuesday, after losing five of their past six matches in all competitions.

Lloyd said: “The lads’ response to what was said in the dressing room is now key.

“I’m bitterly disappointed to have gone out of the FA Vase in the manner we did – it was unacceptable.

“We were in total control of the game, but did not make it count.”

Adam Coleman’s header, from Sam Houghton’s corner, established an interval lead against opponents they had beaten in all four previous meetings.

Neil Weaver equalised for Ashton, then found the net again to make it 2-1.

Substitute Jonny Jones then teed up fellow replacement Jordan Cobley, who restored parity.

However Adam Wilkinson scored a decisive goal with seven minutes left to send the lower-ranked hosts through.

Lloyd added: “With greater conviction, we’d have been out of sight.

“But it became a scrap and Ashton had more stomach for the fight.

“They fought harder to get through, and were braver than us.”

Barnton | Conkie (GK), Crofts, Dursley, Shakeshaft, Coleman, Warren, Kirk (Cobley), Houghton, Quirk, Vaughan (Jones), Smith Subs not used Cross (GK), Hope, Bandell

Attendance 43