AFC Bournemouth women were defeated on penalties to Hashtag United in the National League Cup on Sunday. 

With the game goalless after 90 minutes and then again after extra time, spot-kicks decided who would progress at Canvey Island, the hosts running out 3-0 winners as a result. 

Following the game, manager Steve Cuss spoke to afcb.co.uk about the game, his side's work ethic and what's up next for the Cherries. 

"It could've gone either way and neither side could find the breakthrough," he said.

"I've got to say, I was exceptionally pleased with the players. We competed so well in the game and it's gone all the way to extra-time having not played for three weeks.

"That has really highlighted an area that we've worked on in the summer. We wanted the players fitter, sharper and really ready for this higher level, so I was pleased we could compete like that.

"We had a couple of good chances to have won the game, but we're also indebted to a couple of superb saves from Sam Chrippes in goal to keep us in the game.

"It was a tough ask to play at that level for so long, I thought the players did really well and it was an unfortunate way to lose the game."

While the side hadn't played a competitive match in three weeks, Cuss also discussed the other challenges his side faced around the fixture. 

"We knew it was going to be a long day as we left at 8.30am and got back at 9.30pm.

"We were away for a long time but all the players were committed to that. Credit to them for fitting it into their working week alongside everything else they have going on.

"They were eager to play this week after a few weeks off. We've had circumstances that have seen the games been cancelled.

"The players have had to approach things slightly differently having not played and we've had to adapt our training accordingly due to the lack of game time. They've managed themselves so well and big praise to them for that."

Cuss concluded by discussing the challenge ahead and the opportunity to get back to winning ways in the FA Cup this weekend. 

The Cherries travel to Bournemouth Sports for the first round proper clash, the game kicking off at 2pm at Chapel Gate. 

"We're in the middle of three weeks with three cup games, all in different competitions," he continued. 

"We were all disappointed with the result yesterday, despite being pleased with our performance. Now we need to show a bit of resilience and try to bounce back.

"The FA Cup provides us with that opportunity and it's a great competition for us.

"We'll train hard this week, we've got a special training session on the Vitality Stadium pitch on Tuesday, so we'll prepare well and try to get a good result."