CHERRIES development squad head coach Alan Connell believed his side got what they deserved in a 3-1 defeat at home to Ipswich.

Connell’s young charges saw their 12-match unbeaten run ended at Vitality Stadium on Tuesday night, Kian Tydeman’s 79th minute strike threatening a late comeback that did not transpire in the Professional Development League.

After struggling to create efforts on goal, the final 10 minutes, as well as the lengthy stoppage time added on at the end, highlighted Cherries’ attacking potential, but ultimately their best came too late.

Speaking after the game, Connell told the Daily Echo: “We got what we deserved tonight.

“I think if you're a possession-based team and you're not brave enough on the ball and technically not good enough as we weren't for large spells tonight, then you're going to find yourself struggling.

“The players have been unbelievable the last three months in every aspect, which is why we've been on such a great run.

“But tonight we didn't hit those levels and we got punished for it.

“So especially considering we concede from a set piece as well, that was another disappointing factor of the night.

“Lots of disappointment in there. But it was it was a good response at the end and there were moments of quality, but just not quite enough tonight.

“We congratulate Ipswich on their victory.”

Despite the manner of the defeat, Connell credited his side’s attitude in chasing a way back into the game despite trailing by three after the hour mark.

“5I love the way we went to the end.

“I did think if we got one, we would score again and we had chances - we hit the crossbar, and other moments.

“I wish we'd have started with that sort of front foot mentality. That's always the plan. It obviously wasn't quite there tonight. But it's one to take on the chin, one we've got to respond from.

“We've got an opportunity against Charlton on Sunday.”