Tom Talks | After the Sutton Coldfield game

Despite a hesitant start to the game at Sutton Coldfield on Saturday and the subsequent 1-0 defeat, Spartans' manager Tom Wade thought his side deserved to come away with a point.

"It took us half an hour or so to get used to the artificial surface. It's a unique surface to have to play on. Some of the Sutton Coldfield players were pretty average in the game against us at Croft Park but on their surface they were like superstars. It was of course disappointing though not to get off to a better start.

"After 30 minutes or so we went on to create some half chances, getting balls into the box. Then, after the break, we were totally on top but failed to score.

"On reflection I think we went in to the game with a 'footballing side' and maybe the blend, the balance, wasn't right. We needed more steel and fight. They were more physical than us and created some good opportunities.

"Having said that we did show some good attitude but it was one of those days when you were thinking that it wasn't going to be our day but we did hit the bar and probably deserved a draw.

"The loss isn't really a set-back. We knew we were going to lose games. We've only let ourselves down once or twice this season. Alright, it's three points lost but no-one would have had us down to win at Mickleover with just ten men. That's just how football is.

"We have two home league games on the trot now to get us back on track and the lads can't wait."