AFC Bournemouth battled bravely but bowed out of the National League Cup after a 2-1 defeat to Norwich City in a tie that went to extra-time. 

With the scores level at 1-1 after 90 minutes, Lucy Cooper getting on the scoresheet for the Cherries, the visitors at Ringwood Town sealed it with a strike from 25 yards right at the death. 

Amber Treweek and Helen Blezard both saw efforts hit the woodwork, while Alisha Buckingham had an effort off the post with ten minutes of normal time remaining. 

However, it wasn't enough for Steve Cuss' side as the Canaries progressed to the next round. 

Speaking to afcb.co.uk after the game, the manager admitted that there was still plenty to be proud of despite the result. 

"I'm really pleased with performance. Obviously I'm disappointed with the result and to be out of the cup, but I can't fault the performance. I thought it was really strong. 

"I'm obviously disappointed with the goals that we let in. I thought our possession was good and the number of chances we created was good.

"We were a little bit unlucky with a couple off the line and one that hit the post, but in fairness it was two good teams who are top of their respective league. I thought it was a good advert for the National League. 

"There's obviously a disappointment there but the performance was encouraging. Hopefully we can bounce back from that in the coming weeks." 

Cuss continued by discussing his side's togetherness and their positive response after going a goal down for the first time this season. 

"We found ourselves 1-0 down and it was the first time we've been in that position this season. I've got to say, credit to the players as they showed an awful lot of character to come back into the game. 

"It was a really nicely taken goal from Lucy Cooper down the left-hand side, finishing well with her left foot. We looked like we were going to go on and win it from that point. 

"We kept on creating chances, but just couldn't quite get that goal. Obviously it was a great strike from them at the end to seal it in extra time. 

"It was a close game and there were fine margins, but nothing to be too disappointed about aside from losing the game." 

The Cherries are next in action away to Abingdon United on Sunday 8th October, as they look to maintain their 100% start in the league.