Chris Agutter said his side showed improved intensity in the second half but were ultimately left frustrated after a 1–0 defeat to Boreham Wood in their final game of the 2025/26 season.

A first-half goal from Leon Ayinde proved the difference, as Sutton United ended the campaign without reward despite a stronger display after the break.

“In the first half we were a bit passive in our press,” he said. “We lacked a little bit of conviction, a bit of belief; a bit of hesitation in our press, and that then meant that Boreham Wood could get out and break pressure.”

“But as soon as we delivered some reminders at half time, we started to press with the same energy and intensity that we did against the Rochdale.”

“We then started turning the ball over high and and playing in the opposition’s half, which is where we want to play. So first half there wasn’t a lot in it, but Boreham Wood shaded it and got a goal.”

The decisive moment came when a defensive slip from Dan Urpens allowed the hosts to take the lead, but despite the setback, he felt his side did enough after the break to deserve something from the game, with a lack of cutting edge in front of goal once again proving costly.

“In the second half, we’ve done enough to at least get an equaliser,” he said. “It’s another example of where we’re at – when we play with the right energy and intensity, we can compete with one of the best teams in the league.”

“We’ve just lacked that clinical edge. It’s something we’ve seen when Brandon [Njoku] hasn’t been available.”

“We’re creating chances through good play and strong pressing, which is positive. The concern would be if we weren’t creating anything – but we are. We just need that final bit of quality.”

Danny Cashman made his first start for the club, with Agutter emphasising the longer-term view on his return, something which would be a part of a major rebuild, with the boss reiterating the plan on the horizon.

“He showed some really good moments,” he said. “But it wouldn’t be fair to judge him too heavily at this stage.”

“This period is about the bigger picture – building towards next season and learning as much as we can.”

“It’s going to be a big summer. There will be players leaving, and there will be significant changes.”

“We’re not looking to consolidate – we want to push forward. Based on this season, we’d need roughly another 50 points to be competing at the top end, so that shows the scale of what’s required.”

“But that’s exciting. I’m looking forward to it.”

Finally, he praised the travelling supporters, who turned out in strong numbers in Hertfordshire for the final day.

“They were magnificent,” he said. “We asked the players to give them a performance they deserved, and I think in the second half especially we did that.”

“It’s been a tough season, but this group has kept the club in the National League, which at times didn’t look likely.”

“I wanted the players and supporters to share a moment at the end, because when you look back, that’s an important achievement.”

“The fans have been incredible all season. We want to give them a team they can really get behind, and I can’t wait for them to see what we build over the summer.”