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has not been in the 18 or on the bench, but I will never be afraid to play any of our players and he gave us good balance.

“We defended stoutly and manfully. The boys defended Tom Eaves brilliantly because he’s a tough customer who is awkward to play against.”

Forward Eaves had an off day after getting a wonder goal against Portsmouth last week.

He said: “We’re gutted. If it doesn’t hurt you getting beat then there is something wrong, you shouldn’t be out there if it doesn’t hurt you.”