BOSS Paul Collicutt was far happier despite seeing Evesham United’s cup interest ended for the season.

Wednesday’s 3-2 home defeat to Stourbridge in the Southern League Cup meant the Robins have exited all four knockout competitions at the opening stage.

But in stark contrast to Sunday’s FA Trophy mauling by Moneyfields, United defied being down to 12 fully fit and available players to live up to their moniker.

A bounty of chances were created at both ends, offering Collicutt solace in spite of profligacy costing Evesham.

“It was a very enjoyable, good and entertaining game,” said Collicutt.

“We created two or three times the chances they had, their keeper was absolutely outstanding and I think we were very unlucky to get beaten.

“The whole environment was so much better than on Sunday. Any manager will tell you there is a way of getting beaten and there’s no getting away from it that they Moneyfields loss was bad.

“The lads put in a shift in this one and I can take that, especially as we deserved to get something out of it. Their management team said the same.

“That’s football, though. It is a very cruel sport and that’s a part of why we love it – sometimes!”