A SPIRITED display from Devizes Town went unrewarded as they were edged out by Bemerton Heath Harlequins in the first round.

Darren Walters’ men were up against opposition from the Sydenhams League Premier Division and there was little to choose between the sides after 90 minutes of county cup action at Nursteed Road.

Dan Sloan, returning to the side from suspension, netted for the home team whilst Bemerton’s Russell Cook also notched but the visitors – champions in the competition back in 2011 – stole a march into the next round as Thomas Jeffes struck in extra-time to break Devizes’ hearts.

Winger Brett Partner and Ashley Lock both made their debuts for Walters' men, who were left to reflect on what might have been.

Devizes will be looking to turn the formbook on its head as they bid to bring their seven-match winless run to an end this weekend They go to second-placed Hengrove Athletic – the last team Walters' men tasted victory against with a 2-1 triumph at Nursteed Road on September 1.