FELIXSTOWE and Walton United assistant manager Andy Crump has paid tribute to his players after the heartache of losing Tuesday evening's Isthmian North play-off semi-final on penalties to visitors Bowers & Pitsea.

Crump took care of the team on the night as his management colleague Stuart Boardley was ill and after the match he said: "It doesn't matter how long you have been in football, the feeling that last night has left us all with is one you can never prepare for.

"Standing alongside the boys for 120 mins plus penalties, I couldn't have been prouder of their commitment to bring success to the football club - whilst we weren't able to achieve that through a league title or a playoff final this season, their character to come back after twice being behind in difficult conditions and arguably looking the stronger of the two sides the longer the game went on was commendable and proof again that we have a special group of players representing our club!

"They are hurting for sure but they have big personalities and will be stronger for these moments.

"On behalf of the staff and players, thank you to everyone who has got behind us, allowed us the opportunity to do something we love doing and for continuing to be the heartbeat of the club!

"Putting things into context, The only real disappointment was not having my good mate alongside me last night. Boards was taken ill at the weekend and is currently in hospital undergoing tests… thanks to everyone who sent Boards their best wishes and we hope to see him make a strong recovery

"Thanks again and we look forward to seeing lots of you at the presentation weekend!!