Notts County manager Martin Allen could not hide his frustration after his side let slip the lead at Bournemouth before going down 2-1.
Hamza Bencherif's spectacular strike had given County a fifth-minute lead, but Bournemouth hit back through Wes Thomas and Wes Foden sealed the points for the home side with a fine 83rd-minute strike.
Allen said: "We weren't in any danger or under any real pressure, but we cannot close games out.
"In fact, if anything, I thought we looked more likely to score the winner as both Lee Hughes and Ishmel Demontagnac were clean through on goal, but failed to score."
County were also denied a penalty claim when Hughes tumbled under Bournemouth defender Stephane Zubar's challenge.
Allen added: "The referee said it was a dive, although I'm not sure why he would do that when he was through with only the keeper to beat. Was it a penalty? If the referee says it was a dive you have to accept that."
Comment 1 - 2 of 2
yes it was a dive and if the ref thought it was why was the cheat hughes not booked
Penalty - no chance. Hughes had no control over the ball and although in theory was in a position to shoot he could never have controlled a shot. He threw himself to the ground. I like Martin Allen and I can see exactly why he would think what he has said is right, given he was watching from behind the action. I was in the stand right by the incident.
I think Hughes reaction said it all. He did not appeal much and ran away laughing at Zubar as Zubar remonstrated with him. He was well aware he had dived and I don't think he expected anything.
Shame about Hughes. Always thought he was a really good player. Wonder what he could have made of his career but for his stupidity. We Bournemouth fans booed his every touch and jeered him, but I suspect he is used to that and played with a smile on his face.
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