DOWNTON bowed out of the Sydenhams Wessex League Cup following a penalty shootout defeat (3-1) to high-fliers Hamble.

Spot kicks were forced at Wick Lane after the third round tie finished 1-1 at the end of normal time.

Alex Bake struck first for the visitors, who are chasing promotion from Division One, to take a 1-0 lead into the break.

On 65 minutes, Downton levelled. Tom Aldridge's looping cross was tucked home by Shaun Prentice.

With neither side able to muster a winner, the tie was decided on spot kicks.

Robins only converted one as they lost 3-1.

Downton manager Rae Hughes said: "We were superb."

"The energy, quality and commitment is fantastic at the moment but unfortunately for the lads we are just not finishing our chances, which has cost us in the last three matches. I feel for the lads because we have dominated against a top team.

"We go again on Saturday in which will be another tough test at Romsey."

Laverstock and Ford joined Downton in exiting the cup following a 4-1 defeat to higher-league Hamworthy United.