Sutton United’s FA Trophy run came to a shuddering halt on Tuesday night when the U’s were soundly beaten 5-0 by Boreham Wood.

The U's managed to force a replay last Saturday, drawing 0-0 at home against the Hertfordshire side despite having Ben Jefford and Craig Eastmond sent off.

Wood's Meadow Park home hasn’t been a happy hunting ground for Sutton in recent years and, with nine of their first team squad missing either through injury or suspension, it was always going to be a tough task to grind out yet another result.

The U’s were two goals behind by half-time and in their bid to force their way back into the game, shipped a further three by the final whistle.

Despite his disappointment, Sutton manager Paul Doswell was quick to praise United’s opponents: “I am not making excuses because Boreham Wood were excellent. They were quick, sharp and dangerous. They are a very good side.

“We did ever so well to hang on with nine men on Saturday but this just proved a game too far for us.

“I really felt for our lads who have managed to keep fighting on three fronts up until now.

“We were down to the bare bones. We lost Max Biamou in the warm-up with a foot injury, so had three players on the bench - Craig Dundas, Craig McAllister and Wayne Shaw - whose ages are 35, 36 and 46."

Doswell named four Frenchman in the starting side but lost influential striker Maxime Biamou in the warm-up with a foot injury.

New signings Pape Gueye and Baboye Traore started the game but were withdrawn by the U’s boss at the break.

“They weren’t quite match fit and need to adapt to the pace of the English game and the language. We have to give them time. 

“I also felt sorry for our supporters at the end. They took the time and effort and spent the money to follow us on Tuesday. I almost wished they hadn’t gone, to be honest, but without them there wouldn’t have been any atmosphere.”

United travel to Solihull Moors this Saturday and Guiseley next Tuesday before they can turn their attention back to the FA Cup.