Kent assistant coach Simon Willis summed up the mood in the dressing room moments after their Friends Provident Trophy Final defeat to Essex as one of disappointment.

"If we're honest, in all three facets of the game today we were in second place," said Willis on the steps of the famous Lord's pavillion.

He added: "When you don't turn up to a big game, unfortunately you come out second."

However, there was praise for seam bowler Robbie Joseph - who was a surprise inclusion in the Spitfires starting eleven but the pick of the bowlers taking 3 for 40 from his 10 overs.

"With a little green tinge in the pitch, we thought he might make a little bit of difference," added Willis.

"Full credit to him, he's had some ups and downs in recent years - but this season he's really starting to get his game together and it's really pleasing to see."

Joseph's display was encouraging on a day Willis admitted would hold few memories for Kent and their supporters.

"When you come to big days like this you don't mind losing as long as you put your A-game out there.

"I think at the moment the guys are thinking that maybe a few didn't turn up."