RYLANDS manager Dave McNabb says quality at both ends of the pitch cost his side their place in the FA Vase.

Blues’ fourth game in the competition proved to be their last on Saturday as Lewis Bemrose’s first-half strike proved enough to ensure Grimsby Borough progressed with a 1-0 victory at Gorsey Lane.

It means their hopes of an appearance at Wembley Stadium are over for this season and McNabb was magnanimous in defeat, paying “full credit” to the visitors.

“A disappointing result for us. We started slowly and grew into the game,” he said.

“At half time, we were fortunate to only be one goal down.

“We pressed well in the second half and made more chances but ultimately, the quality at both ends has cost us today.

“Full credit to Grimsby Borough, who played well today and we wish them the best of luck for the rest of the competition.”

After making several wonderful saves early on, Blues keeper Graeme McCall was finally beaten when a sweeping Grimsby move led to Bemrose firing low and hard into the bottom corner.

Rylands imposed themselves after the interval in search of an equaliser, with George Lomax going close on several occasions, but the visitors held on for victory.

With their Vase run at an end, Blues now travel to Bootle in the Liverpool Senior Cup in their next fixture on Wednesday, kick off 7.45pm.