The Lilywhites lost 2-0 to Biggleswade, with Butler admitting afterwards that he and fellow boss Ian Richardson are really looking to 'steady the ship' this season.

"I would be happy if we finish mid-table," said Butler. "I want to really steady the ship and then next year push on."

Despite losing to the side 5th in the MSSML Premier Division, Butler believes if it wasn't for their poor finishing on the night and their defensive set-up they could easily have left with a spot in the next round .

"Credit to all the boys they all played very well," said Butler.
"If we had attacked them with more players we would have got something out of it.

"It's all a learning curve."

Berko began with five at the back - new signing Rory Smith starting alongside Fergus Moore in the centre of defence - with three in the middle and two forwards.

Missing Alex McCarthy, Berko were lacking the finishing touch up front. Despite creating plenty of first half chances they just couldn't get themselves on the scoresheet.

Biggleswade's star man Ryan Redford put his side one up during the first half, with the second coming towards the end of the game.

In between Berko certainly held her own, but were beaten by a side who simply were more clinical in front of goal.

"They won with some tremendous finishing," added Butler. "But we hit the post and their keeper pulled off some top saves."

Butler revealed that in order to combat their recent goal drought, he and fellow boss Richardson would be bringing in a couple of coaches to try to get their strikers firing on all cylinders.

Berko were playing a friendly against Leyton as The Gazette went to press, with their next league game this Saturday at Broxbourne Borough.

"I don't think any of the boys deserve to get left out," he added. "I'm more than happy with them.