Hereford United defender Matt Clarke appeared to have given his side a sensational 11th-minute lead in Saturday's Sky-televised FA Cup first-round clash with Second Division leaders Wigan Athletic at Edgar Street.

However, United's jubilation was short-lived and, as Clarke raced away to celebrate, the assistant referee belatedly flagged for off-side.

Clarke said: "I just hit it and turned around to celebrate and the linesman had hesitantly put his flag up. I could not believe it because I thought I was on-side."

Despite striking the post through Paul Parry and dominating the first half, Hereford's cup hopes were cruelly dashed in the 90th minute when Wigan midfielder Scott Green drilled in the only goal from close range.

Parry, who struck the woodwork, said: "Everyone gave it their best and it was gutting to lose in such a manner. Unfortunately, we did not take our chances."

United boss Graham Turner said: "In cup ties you need a bit of luck and, unfortunately, we did not get it. There's no bitterness, just disappointment, because it was a very harsh way to lose."

He added: "The were some very good individual performances from our players. Our biggest problem is that we cannot score goals at the moment."

Wigan manager Paul Jewell said: "We did not play particularly well but we came away with the result. Hereford raised their game and will probably feel aggrieved."

Former Hereford cup hero Ricky George, a Sky TV pundit for the match, said: "Never at any stage were Wigan the better side. Hereford were much the better side overall. It was a great performance from Hereford. But the defeat was cruel for the players, the fans and for Graham Turner."

Report and more pictures: Sport 3