The Salts stepped out in their new yellow away kit against last season’s landlords, looking to build on recent performances despite a much-changed line-up. With several players injured or unavailable, two new signings were drafted straight into the side.

We looked the stronger team in the first half, creating chances and playing with real intent, but just couldn’t find the breakthrough we deserved. It stayed goalless at the interval, with Casuals offering little in response.

On 61 minutes, Casuals took the lead somewhat against the run of play through Rafael Barbosa. The setback was short-lived, though, as Kingsley Apau Anokye hit back just three minutes later with a superb strike to level the scores.

The turning point came in the 73rd minute when defender Toby Young was harshly dismissed for being the last man. Despite being down to ten, the Salts dug in and battled bravely, looking set to claim a hard-earned point.

Cruelly, in the 90th minute, Casuals snatched a winner, leaving us with nothing to show for a performance full of effort and commitment.

A frustrating and disappointing result — that didn’t reflect the effort and spirit shown by the team.