An impressive first-half performance from a makeshift Lewes side was not enough to see the Rooks progress in the FA Trophy, as two goals early in the second half saw Ryman Premier side Kingstonian claim the win in a closely-fought game at Kingsmeadow reports Tom Harper.
With a number of first-team regulars missing through injury and suspension, Darren Freeman made several changes to the side from the win at Three Bridges.
Jonte Smith was also making his first start since returning to the club on loan from Welling United.
Lewes finally made their bright start count by taking the lead after 20 minutes, as Freeman sent a header goalwards from another corner, and Smith appeared to get the last touch inside the six-yard box to help the ball past Tolfrey.
Conceding the goal appeared to wake the hosts up after their poor start, with Joe Turner heading wide at the far post and Lucas Covolan reacting well to deny Ryan Moss after only being able to parry a low effort from Turner, as the Rooks saw their makeshift back four tested for the first time.
Kingstonian equalized in fortunate circumstances after 53 minutes, as Moss capitalized on uncertainty between Brinkhurst and Covolan to charge down an attempted clearance from the goalkeeper and roll the ball into the empty net. The hosts took the lead just four minutes later, with Moss dispossessing Brinkhurst in the penalty area and sending a powerful effort past Covolan and into the roof of the net from close range.
Lewes responded well to conceding two preventable goals in quick succession and came close to equalizing minutes after going behind, as Brotherton sent a low cross-shot from the right side of the penalty area across goal and just too far ahead of Culley in the six-yard box.
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