Skem defeat hard to take for “disappointed” Hooks

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Spartans midfielder Neal Hooks cut a disappointed figure as he reflected on his side's defeat at top of the league Skelmersdale United. Kenny Strickland's forty fourth minute free kick sent Spartans to their third single goal defeat in seven days but Hooks felt they deserved more after a spirited performance.

"We are disappointed that we got nothing from the game because we felt we deserved a draw. We didn't think the free kick that led to the goal was a foul but take nothing away from their lad it was a great strike. Overall we are just disappointed"

A number of decisions by referee Kelvin Sarsfield led to discontent from players of both sides as the official dismissed a player from both sides and Hooks felt both decisions were debatable.

"It's hard to deal with but to be fair I don't think either red card was warranted. We feel Alex Nicholson wasn't last man and shouldn't have been sent off and their lad's second yellow was slightly harsh"

With a run of three consecutive defeats behind them Spartans head into Sunday's FA Cup clash on a negative but Hooks insisted the mood in the dressing room is quite the opposite as they prepare to meeting Darlington at the weekend.

"We are upbeat and we know that if we keep putting in that effort like we did tonight the results will come. It's disappointing to be on this run but we know we will get results because we are improving"