2024 champions Hyde United exited the Cheshire Senior Cup at the first-round stage on Monday after a 4-1 thrashing at North West Counties side Stockport Town.
A much-changed Tigers side managed to draw level just after the break as Jordan Scanlon cancelled out Keane Barugh’s opener, but three second half strikes saw the hosts ease into the next round.
A brace from former Curzon Ashton man Oliver Kvaternik and a Callum Gardner penalty ensured the Lions would progress.
“It’s not good enough,” said a frustrated Martin Coyne following the defeat.
“I’ve just said to the lads there, there’s a motto in our dressing room which is that the minimum requirement is maximum effort, and I think we fell short of that tonight.
“We learnt a lot of lessons, and we just weren’t good enough from the minute we kicked off to the minute we finished.”
Tuesday night saw Ashton United pass up on the chance to set up an all-Ashton Manchester Premier Cup Final, with Tameside neighbours Droylsden picking up a shock semi-final victory at Hurst Cross.
Following their loss at home to Real Madrid last week, knocking them out of the Champions League, Manchester City faced arguably a tougher test against Arsenal in the Carabao Cup Final on Sunday.
Local gymnast Poppy Blair has delivered an inspiring return to competition, showcasing resilience, determination and exceptional commitment after a year of significant challenges.