Suffolk FA Under-18 manager Andy Reynolds felt both sides were preparing to settle this season’s FA County Youth Cup final on penalties until Lancashire’s late winner.

Substitute Cory Bent stabbed home three minutes from the end of extra-time to seal a 3-2 victory for the visitors in Saturday’s showpiece at Portman Road.

Reynolds said: “There was a real ebb and flow to the game, and it was a really good cup final for the neutrals to watch.

“After our opening spell they got a hold on the game and made it difficult for us for a while.

“We then managed to get it back to 2-2 and got on top, but they always looked dangerous on the counter-attack.

“Both teams’ legs were starting to tire and some players had picked up knocks.

“I think both benches were probably all set for it to go to penalties, but they got a fortunate bounce and their player has shown good composure to score the winning goal.

“I was pleased to see us get one more opportunity after that, although we couldn’t make it count.

Suffolk keeper James Bradbrook admitted he could have been sent off after bringing down Lancashire’s Jack Williams in the 25th minute.

He said: “I honestly thought I was off, but luckily for me the referee made his decision nice and early and told everyone I was only going to get a yellow card.”

He added: “Obviously it is very disappointing to lose – I would rather lose 3-0 than lose to a goal in the last minute.”

Tevan Allen, who was arguably Suffolk’s man-of-the-match, said: “This is the worst feeling I have had in a long time.

“Credit to Lancashire who are a good side. They have come out and beaten us which is what football is all about.”

Allen, who is expected to be in Bury Town’s squad for tomorrow night’s Suffolk FA Premier Cup final against Felixstowe & Walton United at AFC Sudbury, added: “If we win that it should lift my spirits a bit after today.”