Northern Senior League
Division Two
Ruardean Hill 4, Frampton 4
THIS was a disappointing result for the Foresters. They were pre-match favourites to see off bottom-placed Frampton but in the end had to rely on a last gasp penalty to share the points.
"I suppose we were our own worst enemies. We had scoring chances and also made defensive errors," reflected skipper Martin Coleman.
However he remains highly optimistic better times are just around the corner for his young squad.
"We were unbeaten last season and before the start there was a lot of talk about going for promotion. Our ambition is to play in Northern Senior League Division One and I'm sure were have the ability to achieve that.
"There's no chance now but we will be aiming to finish in the top half of the league and then go for promotion next season," he said.
A couple of defections and injuries to Barry Jones and Ian Roberts has reduced selection options, but Coleman is anticipating an upturn in fortunes in the New Year.
"We have a new coach in Ady Coles who has joined us from Broadwell and he has brought some fresh faces with him. That is all to the good as it has introduced some competition for places.
"We disappointed on Saturday and I would think Frampton were very pleased to get a point," he said.
To date Coleman's team has won three, lost four and drawn two but he is confident of better times.
Coleman has been at Ruardean Hill since his school days and is in his 13th season at the club.
"We have a young team and they will get stronger and better. The aim is definitely to play in Northern Senior Division One and that will be the highest level the club has ever achieved," he said.
Saturday's goals were scored by Chris Hale (2) and Ian Watkins. However the draw hung on Andy Coleman's late penalty.
The club has had some success in cup matches already this term having beaten Aylburton in the final of the Intermediate competition. They also reached the quarter finals of the Forest Green Trophy.