Kettering Town pay the price for a slow start at York

Paul Cox conceded Kettering Town “paid the price” for a slow start as they slipped to a 2-0 defeat at Vanarama National League North title favourites York City.

The Poppies found themselves 2-0 down inside the first seven minutes with Sean Newton scoring both goals for the hosts - the first from the penalty spot and the second from a direct free-kick.

Cox felt his team “gave it a really good go” after those early setbacks but they were unable to find a way through as their four-match unbeaten run came to an end.

“We didn’t turn up for the first 10 or 12 minutes and paid the price for it,” the Kettering manager said.

“From then onwards, I thought we gave it a really good go and were unlucky on a number of occasions.

“Possession wise and territory wise, we were very much on top but you can’t afford to come away to a club like York City, with the players they have got, and give them a 2-0 headstart after 10 minutes.

“I have got mixed feelings because I did feel we went for it against a good side but I am disappointed it has taken us too long to get going.

“But when you are 2-0 down after 10 minutes, you give yourselves a mountain to climb.”

The midweek clash looks to have come at a cost after recent loan signing Jevan Anderson was forced off through injury while Cox also revealed Gary Stohrer needed his head glued after a collision.

“Jev came off with a knock and it was a nasty challenge on Gaz and I think he has had his head glued as a result,” the Poppies boss added.

“You are going to get knocks and bruises and we have felt the pinch a bit with Jamie Chisholm and Sam Jones already being injured.

“Every team is going to get these knocks, we just have to soldier on and get people right for the weekend.”

The Poppies are due to take on AFC Telford United at Latimer Park on Saturday.