LIFE as Amesbury Town boss didn't go to plan for Adam Pearson.

The player/manger's first game in charge resulted in a 4-1 hammering by promotion-chasing Blackfield and Langley in Sydenhams Wessex Premier on Saturday.

Luke Winsper the hosts ahead at the Gang Warily Stadium, but that was cancelled out by Paul Coventry's strike.

Ex-Salisbury striker and now Blackfield's leading scorer restored Blackfield's advantage before Harrison Fray gave them a 3-1 lead at the break.

Late on, debutant Tom Hill added a fourth to round off the rout.

Although Amesbury are in a relatively comfortable mid-table position, their recent form is poor, having won just one of their last 12 games.

"Despite the result, there are a few positives to take," said Pearson, who replaced Jim Macey at the helm.

"We know it's a tough month but one win in 12 isn't good enough and we need to change that and get points on the board, ASAP."

Blues face another tough challenge at third-placed Portland United on Saturday (3pm).