St Ives coach Paul Humphreys admitted his side’s latest defeat was “another tough pill to swallow” after a close-fought contest. 

A late Ives attack was unable to prevent a 13-3 defeat at home to Northampton Casuals in the Midlands League Counties 1 Midlands East (South) on December 3, despite an improved defence. 

Ives were under early first half pressure and having seen several attacks thwarted, the hosts’ only points came from the boot of Paul Ashbridge. 

But despite being a man down, Northampton struck soon after half-time before converting a penalty. 

The Hunts Post: Ollie Raine holds onto possession for St Ives vs Northampton Casuals.Ollie Raine holds onto possession for St Ives vs Northampton Casuals. (Image: Paul Cox)

And having aimed for victory late on, a patient Casuals attack ensured they would secure the win. 

“This was another tough pill to swallow,” said Humphreys. 

“Our skills and thought processes let us down; it’s fixable, [but] we just need to train as a team and club and we will start to get our rewards.” 

St Ives visit fellow strugglers Oakham on December 10.