Explanation:

- The first statement talks about how the team put in a lot of effort during the match.

- The second statement indicates that despite their efforts, the result didn't reflect their hard work.

- Option 1: Nonetheless indicates that the second statement contrasts with the first, which fits well here.

- Option 2: Since suggests a cause-and-effect relationship, which doesn't align with these statements.

- Option 3: As, similar to "since," usually implies reason, not contrast.

- Option 4: Because is used for explanation or reasoning, inappropriate for contrasting these ideas.

- Option 5: None of the above is incorrect because an appropriate connector exists.