Lymington & New Milton's dream to turn Fawcett's Field into the killing fields with another major FA Cup scalp were cruelly shattered by a late double blow from Aldershot ace Gary Abbott.

After embarrassing Dr Martens Premier Division outfit Clevedon 3-1 a fortnight ago, the Jewson Wessex League champions once again successfully bridged the two-division gap which separates them from the best-supported non-league club outside the Conference.

But after 75 minutes, Aldershot's superior fitness level began to exploit gaps in the Linnets' defence and Mark Bentley was allowed time and space down the right to cross for Abbott to flick the ball home.

And it was curtains for Derek Binns' battlers seven minutes later when skipper Graham Kemp inadvertently steered his attempted clearance goalwards for Abbott to lash in almost on the goalline, much to the delight of the 1,000-plus travelling Shots fans.

"We deserved more than that,'' reflected Binns. "It was a crack-ing match and I think we were worth a draw - the 3-1 scoreline certainly flattered them.

"All my players battled and worked and gave their all and, as a manager, I can't ask any more of them than that.

"You must remember that Aldershot are a more professional and fitter outfit than us but, on the day, I thought we were comparable with them in every department on the field.

"It should also be remembered that Aldershot splashed out on two players, keeper Andy Pape and defender Andy Pearce, in preparation for this match and that little extra bit of professionalism, training and slice of good fortune has seen them through,'' summed up the Linnets boss.

Earlier, a sweet 18th minute left-footed volley by Bentley had given Aldershot the lead only for the Linnets to level in a ten-minute purple patch just before the interval.

Mick Cuffie was only inches away from connecting with Mark Jones' wicked low cross just moments before Brett Phillips' thumping 20-yard drive through a congested penalty area was deflected into the bottom corner of the net by Phil Stone for the Linnets' equaliser.

Although Binns is probably correct in saying the 3-1 scoreline flattered the Shots, it should be recorded that this Lymington & New Milton side deserve enormous credit for getting within touching distance of the first round proper.

Had their own two most recent signings, Jason Lovell and Craig Mansell, not been cup-tied, it could so easily have been a different story.

But with Jimmy Sheppard and Jimmy Anderson soon to return from injury, expectations are high that this Linnets side can improve upon last season's quarter-final best when they enter the FA Carlsberg Vase next month.

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