COVENTRY Sphinx bowed out of the FA Cup at the first round qualifying stage following a narrow 1-0 defeat at higher division Stamford.
The game’s only goal came just before half time as Jordon Cooke’s header settled the cup tie at the Zeeco Stadium.
Stamford play one level higher than Coventry in the Southern League Premier Central.
The hosts took the lead on 43 minutes as Cooke rose highest to head in Connor Bartle’s free-kick from the right from close range.
Coventry host Lincoln United in the FA Trophy on Saturday, September 6 with kick-off at 3pm at the Cameron Slater Arena.
