Leyton Orient defender Joe Widdowson was disappointed with their 1-0 defeat to play-off challenging Dover Athletic.

A wonder strike from Mitch Pinnock separated the two sides and guided Chris Kinnear’s men to the three points at the Crabble Athletic Ground.

The 28-year-old feels they could have prevented the goal that cost them coming away with at least a point.

“Yeah we’re disappointed, the overall performance level wasn’t as good as it has been, especially in the second-half and we’re disappointed to come away with a 1-0 defeat.

“It came kind of out of nothing really and he’s just got inside Jake (Caprice) really and taken a shot early and to be fair it was a good finish but we could have been tighter to prevent him getting a shot off, so that was disappointing.

“Obviously we had our chances early on in the game as well to try and score, which we haven’t taken so it’s frustrating.”

The former Dagenham & Redbridge defender was utilised in a centre-back for the match and he revealed he enjoys playing in that role.

“I do quite enjoy it, you’re focusing more on defending and communicating, talking to people and those around you, so I do like it but I like left-back as well.”

Widdowson admits it helps to have the same back four consistently but believes you just have to get on with it.

“Ideally I think you’d want to keep the same personnel if you’re keeping clean sheets and I think to be fair conceding wise we’ve been quite good of late and not letting in too many goals.

“People have been injured, so you have to make do and new people come in and you have to just get on with it.”

Sam Ling made his first start for the O’s and reunited with former team-mate Widdowson who praised the young full-back.

“Lingy is great to play with, he’s a really good player, very comfortable, makes good decisions, talks well, and I obviously know what he can do.

“He can play right-back, left-back and he’s very versatile.”

He also praised Marvin Ekpitera who came off the bench in the 78th minute to make his debut.

“Marv come in and done well, It wasn’t for too long, but Marv has been good in training and I think he’ll definitely be pushing for a start soon.”