HEREFORD manager Josh Gowling said his team will come back stronger after their 3-1 defeat in the FA Trophy final at Wembley.

Tom Owen-Evans had put the Bulls into a first half lead before three second half goals from Hornchurch won them the title.

“I think we controlled the first half but lost the game in the second half as we didn’t retain the football,” said Gowling.

“I feel for the lads as they’re like sons to me, but we dropped off a little bit when I wanted them to try and push forward.

“We have got to be gracious in defeat, my lads are respectful and will bounce back. I’m hurting but I know we will come back stronger.

“Sometimes you have to go through this to propel yourself forward. The lads have been excellent all season and we have learnt each time we have had a loss.

“I spoke to them at half-time and told the players I wanted us to control the game in the second half but we needed the second goal, we didn’t get that.