HATCH Warren Phoenix under-13 Flares put up a battling performance, but in the end lost 7-4 at Barton Rovers.

The Phoenix got off to a great start with a couple of early goals from man of the match Lewis Simmonds and Sam Hartgill.

Before the break, the visitors had added a couple more goals as Simmonds netted his second and Tommy Boyce scored from the penalty spot after Simmonds was brought down when clean through.

In the second half, the Flares created a number of good chances but were not as clinical as they lost 7-4.

The previous week, the Flares were knocked out of the Hampshire as they faced top Isle of Wight side Newport.

The islanders strengthened by a number of Portsmouth Academy players and unbeaten in two years.

The visitors only goal came on the counter attack from David Cope well assisted by Wesley N'Dabian.

Josh Whiles and Owen Elliott shared the Hatch Warren man of the match.