BOSS Tom Killick reiterated that his team’s “season isn’t over” after their FA Cup heartbreak, before urging them to “bounce back” for their first qualifying round game in the FA Trophy, writes Jack Tanner.

Poole Town host Hartley Wintney in the FA Trophy at the Black Gold Stadium on Saturday (3pm).

Dolphins wasted a huge chance to reach the first round of the FA Cup on Tuesday night, as a poor performance allowed Southern League South rivals Hayes & Yeading to command the tie and win 3-2 to progress to a money-spinning fixture against League One Oxford United.

Despite the setback, Killick says his side are aiming for an immediate response.

He told the Daily Echo: “We have to try and get over the FA Cup quickly. It was a huge opportunity missed, but we have to move forward and focus on other things still available to us.

“We have to bounce back with a positive response on Saturday. Just like against Hayes, we are playing a team in our own league, so we have a strong chance of progression.

“Our season isn’t over by a long shot. There’s still plenty to play for and it is imperative we get back to winning ways, by picking ourselves up and moving on. It won’t be easy, but it must be done.”

When quizzed if there was a temptation to take a less serious approach to the remaining cup competitions to concentrate on their promotion push, Killick quickly shot down the idea.

“Maybe if it was a second-rate competition, like the League Cup, then yes,” he said.

“But we hold the FA Cup and FA Trophy in high regards. They are both good money earners.

“The FA Trophy is an important competition as far as I’m concerned, and we will be treating it as such.

“I’m still yet to decide who will play, but it will be a strong squad. Everyone in that dressing room is eager to go again and put Tuesday behind us.

“We’ve got a very strong group of players, so I know I can change things up if need be.”

Luke Holmes returns to contention after serving a three-match ban, and Killick is likely to bring the former Wimborne midfielder back into the fold straight away.

“I thought we really missed Luke in our past two matches," said the Dolphins boss.

"He can be a great game changer – the way he plays, the confidence he plays with – he can unlock a defence, which is something we needed against Hayes.

“I haven’t fully decided who will play, but having Luke available again is a big plus for us.”

The winner of Saturday’s tie will take home £2,450 as well as a place in the second qualifying round, whilst the losers receive £800.