Wisbech Town Veterans pushed a team stacked with former internationals and national champions all the way yesterday.

They lost 2-1 to Cannock in the National Trophy semi-final.

Wisbech had a few gilt edge chances which were not converted before Jody Betts, from open play, scored on his reverse stick.

Cannock came more into the game with long balls to their forwards but good tackling from Nick Osborn and Nick Overland kept Cannock at bay. However, they scored from a well worked short corner late in the half.

In the second half, Cannock started well but were contained by excellent work, especially from midfielder Mark Littlechild.

The game could have changed had Cannock’s centre forward been red carded for violent conduct.

Soon after, another short corner was awarded and the Cannock captain, who had made more than 200 international appearances, slammed the ball past the goalkeeper.

Wisbech pressed for the equaliser but their efforts were in vain.