Lowestoft Town FC manager Jamie Godbold admitted the opening week of the new campaign had provided mixed emotions.

Fron the highs of a fine opening day away league victory on Saturday, to the lows of an Emirates FA Cup first qualifying round defeat at home on Tuesday, the Blues boss has now called on his players to respond from the midweek loss.

Two Jacek Zielonka penalties had sealed a superb 2-1 win at Barwell in the Pitching In Southern Premier Division Central League last weekend.

But The Trawlerboys bowed out of the Emirates FA Cup following a 2-3 defeat against Aveley FC at Crown Meadow on Tuesday.

The visitors were 2-0 up inside 17 minutes following defensive lapses, and despite goals from Jake Reed and substitute Louis McIntosh either side of a 64th minute Aveley goal, it proved to not be enough for the frustrated Blues.

“It has been a mixture of emotions,” Godbold said.

“Saturday was a really tough game and to come back from 1-0 down to win the game – which has not happened too many times – was really great.

“We showed great resilience, particularly in the second half, and took the chances when they came while defensively – all over the pitch – we were great.

“After such a good result and performance on Saturday to get the season off to a great start, I was expecting us to go into Tuesday’s game with an air of confidence.

“But unfortunately we did not play to the levels we expect.

“We knew what Aveley were capable of and the way they play, and I was particularly disappointed with the manner of the goals we conceded.

“When you look back on all three goals, they are gifts.

“I was pleased with the effort of the players, but it was really disappointing when Aveley went down to 10 men.

“We had an opportunity to get hold of the game but we tried to force things too much and it cost us.”

Two home games against Hednesford tomorrow (3pm KO) and Peterborough Sports on Tuesday (7.45pm KO) await.

Godbold said: “We’ve a really busy schedule of games coming up every Saturday and Tuesday and the next two games will be tough against sides likely to be in the mix for play off places.

“We want to be competitive in each game we play and we know we need to bounce back.”

Lowestoft confirmed today that talented striker Malachi Linton has signed for Championship side Wycombe Wanderers, following a trial.

Since featuring against Waveney FC in pre season for Lowestoft, Mal had begun a trial periodwith Wycombe and he did well enough in training and games to be offered a deal with the newly promoted club.

Blues boss Jamie Godbold said: “I am delighted for Mal to get the offer and be able to go back to full-time football.

“Its a great story and message to other young players that leave professional clubs.

“Since Mal came in to our changing room he has shown personality, commitment and talent and it was easy to overlook him being a teenager.

“I hope it lights a fire under some of our younger lads who may want to get back in the game and also shows what young players can achieve playing for Lowestoft Town with the right attitude”.

Everyone at LTFC wishes Mal well at Wycombe.