The Northampton Town Football and Education Programme NFYL South Premier Division Squad lost 1-0 at home to Plymouth Argyle on Wednesday.
The Cobblers had the better of the chances against their fellow mid-table opponents, who scored a late winner to take all three points.
The hosts came close inside two minutes when Patrick McGrath lofted the ball over the onrushing ‘keeper, whose slight touch took it away from goal.
Tom Ladyman back-peddled to tip over a shot from long range soon after in an end-to-end start to the game.
The Cobblers threatened again midway through the half when Johnny Carey clipped a perfectly-weighted ball over the top of the defence to Freddie King, who fired into the side-netting.
Jonny Harris shot just wide on the turn as the hosts continued to push for an opener early in the second half.
King flicked on Ellis Andrews’ long ball to substitute Eddie Panter, who rounded the goalkeeper and had an effort cleared off the line after the hour.
However, it was the visitors who scored the only goal of the game with just three minutes of normal time remaining when an attacker converted from close range after Ladyman saved a low free-kick.
Fran Constancio’s side make the long journey to Portsmouth on Friday.
Cobblers: Tom Ladyman, Josh Whaler, Kieron Mobbs, Elliot Turton, Ellis Andrews, David Sarpong, Patrick McGrath, Johnny Carey, Jonny Harris, Alfie Doherty, Freddie King
Substitutes: Ethan Aldridge, Zack Douglas, Tyrun Primus, Eddie Panter, Mac Coulson