Monk tastes first defeat at Bexhill
A poor start ultimately cost United but they went on to dominate the remainder of the match, playing some of the finest football during Monk's short tenure without managing to unearth a precious equaliser.
Monk said: "For 10 minutes we were disorganised but for the next 35 minutes we totally dominated. We played some outstanding football and we did everything but score."
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Hide AdAll the good work was put to waste though by one defensive mis-understanding between Kris Kayne and Ollie Leigh on the right which allowed the hosts' wide left player to nip in and surge down the flank from where he cut the ball back for Holmes to slide it past Aaron Heritage - the first goal Bexhill had conceded in 230 minutes of action.
The visitors quickly put it behind them though and proceeded to dictate the play if not the scoreboard against a side who have now won five of their last six Sussex Division Three matches.
Ball after ball was delivered into the home penalty box but the reward proved unforthcoming. The closest they came was a header from Dickie Anderson which clattered the post from an inviting Kayne cross.
Bexhill will be hoping for better luck at home to Wadhurst United on Saturday January 3, kick-off 1.45pm.