Jack Holland admitted Bromley’s FA Cup exit was extremely disappointing, but insisted the squad will bounce back when they return to league action.

The Ravens crashed out of the cup competition following a 2-1 defeat at home to Eastleigh.

Holland, 23, criticised Bromley’s slow start to the outing which enabled their National League opposition to secure an early lead.

“All the boys know that the first half was disappointing and sluggish,” Holland said.

“It wasn’t good enough and it allowed them to get in the game and get a crucial lead.

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“Overall it was really disappointed afternoon – no-one likes going out of the cup this early. For the players, the board and the fans it’s obviously a major blow.”

After trailing 1-0 at half-time, the Lilywhites dominated the second period and drew level through a Louis Dennis strike.

However, against the run of play the visitors regained the decisive lead when Jai Reason’s tame cross somehow beat Chris Kettings, who is on loan from Crystal Palace.

“It was just a bit of freak goal,” Holland said. “Ben [Chorley] and Chris have been two of our key players so we’re not going to point the finger or blame anyone.

“We could have had a penalty as well. I thought Anthony Cook was brought down before half-time.

“I don’t want to start commenting on decisions or blaming officials but from where I was it looked like he was tripped.”

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Despite the immense disappointment of a cup exit, Holland, a natural defender who has often been deployed as a forward this season, is adamant that the defeat will not hinder the club’s league form.

He added: “It’s really tough to take but now we need to focus on the league and try and get a string of wins together and climb up the table.

“It’s not much of a positive but at least we can now focus on our league form and try and secure a place in the play-offs.

“We need to pick ourselves up and come out firing next week.

“We’re obviously going to be hurt but with the squad we have and the management team I know we’ll bounce back and now it’s all about the league.”

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