MISSED opportunities proved costly as Llanidloes Town bowed out of the JD Welsh Cup with a 2-1 first round exit at Buckley Town last weekend.

The Daffs had led at the break through Gareth Owen’s header, but should have been further clear after having the better of the encounter at the Globe.

As so often is the case, their profligacy returned to haunt the Daffs as Aron Williams levelled before a headed own goal from Ryan Biggs saw Buckley progress to the second round.

It was a disappointing outcome for Llani who performed admirably against their Welsh National League hosts who have now won their last six outings.

"We created ample opportunities to win the game, as many chances as we’ve had all season, but it wasn’t meant to be," said manager manager Hugh Clarke.

"I can’t have a go at the lads as they played ever so well, it was just one of those days."

With no recognised keeper with Aaron Warrick injured, Ollie Lewis took over between the posts, and was barely tested in the first half before making some smart stops in the second period in an assured display.

Rhys Evans had some good opportunities bit it wasn’t to be his day, although it still looked rosy for the Daffs who led through Owen’s well taken header just before half time.

Chances continued to come and go, and Buckley made the most of their reprieves as Williams levelled before an unfortunate headed own goal from Biggs following a lack of communication settled the issue.

That summed up a frustrating afternoon for Llani, who will be keen to make a swift riposte on Saturday when they visit Newbridge in the first round of the Spar Mid Wales League Cup - a competition in which they should be realistic challengers.

"We’ll be looking for a run in this cup, but can’t take anything for granted," added Clarke.

While involved in the Welsh Cup, Llani also lost top spot in the Spar Mid Wales League division one after Welshpool won 7-0 against Machynlleth. The Lilywhites have now moved two points clear at the summit.

LLANIDLOES (v Buckley Town): O Lewis, R Biggs, S Jones, H Clarke, Josh Evans, M Savage (Joe Evans 75), G Owen, E Clarke, Rhys Evans, Richie Evans, G Clarke. Subs not used: A Owen, J Jarman.Click on the links below for more Welsh Cup reaction.