Ian Edge’s baptism of managerial fire has continued in the past few days.

The rookie Huntingdon Town boss has seen his depleted squad beaten 2-1 at lower-level Potton as their defence of the Hinchingbrooke Cup came to an end.

The cup exit was followed by the departure of important players with skipper Dan Newman leaving and the dual-registered Dan Moyes returning to St Ives Town. Recent signing Andries Pantiga has proved uncontactable.

And there was more misery on Saturday in a heavy United Counties League Premier Division defeat when Town were thumped 7-3 at Wellingborough Town.

Edge was able to call on only 12 players, including himself, although his participation was ended by injury late in the first half.

Edge admitted: “The chairman and directors are not expecting miracles this season.

“They understand the position we are in with so many players having left.

“It looks like my skipper has bailed on me after the cup game at Potton and Moyes has gone back to St Ives.

“I’m going to stick by my principles and I won’t spend big money on players who I don’t feel are worth it.”

Huntingdon have two home games in the next four days and could come up against their former boss.

Seb Hayes, who stepped down for personal reasons, has returned to the game as part of a caretaker managerial partnership at Peterborough Northern Star, who visit Jubilee Park tonight (Wednesday).

Premier Division leaders AFC Rushden & Diamonds then arrive on Saturday.