Cheltenham Town boss Steve Cotterill admitted his side were left frustrated after conceding a stoppage time equaliser in a 1–1 draw, despite what he described as one of their most disciplined displays since his arrival.
“We’ve become a victim in the last two games of having a blatant free kick in the build-up to their goal,” Cotterill said.
“It happened against Bristol Rovers, and it happened again today. It’s disappointing, because the lads worked extremely hard.”
The Robins looked set for all three points after a solid defensive performance and several good chances, including efforts from Isaac Hutchinson that struck the post and bar, but a late goal denied them victory, something Cotterill believes was unjust.
“I thought we were on our way to three points”, Cotterill added, “Would we have taken a draw before the game? Maybe, but when it pans out like that, you’re left disappointed the referee had a big crowd behind him, and that can influence decisions.”
Despite the late setback, Cotterill was full of praise for his players’ work rate and defensive organisation.
Goalkeeper Joe Day impresses once again in particularly early on in the first half, with a stunning save that sets the tone for the rest of the performance.
“Joe hasn’t been overworked, he made a brilliant stop in the first 30 seconds said Cotterill.
“That was a top save you have to wake up quickly in games like this, and he did that.”
New signing Jonathan Tomkinson made his debut at left back and earned praise from the manager for his athleticism and composure in an unfamiliar role.
“Jonathan did really well,” Cotterill said. “He hasn’t played much football, so to come in on his weaker side and perform like that was excellent. He cramped up late on, but that’s just down to lack of minutes. He gave us size and presence on those long throws.”
Cotterill also welcomed Jordan Thomas back from injury, though he admitted that the winger is still adapting to the team’s tactical setup “He doesn’t quite know what he’s doing with us yet because he hasn’t trained much,” he joked.
“But it’s great to have him back.”
Tom Taylor was introduced from the bench late on, while experienced players Lee Angol and Harry Pell missed out due to squad limits. “You can only pick 18,” Cotterill explained.
“They’ll be back in training Monday.”
Taylor replaces Bickerstaff 🔄 pic.twitter.com/ZA7OkqYwe9
— Cheltenham Town (@CTFCofficial) October 11, 2025
Looking at the bigger picture, the manager was encouraged by the team’s response and gradual progress since he took charge.
“I’m pleased with how they’ve taken on the information,” he said “They’ve had long meetings, long days, and a lot of coaching. But they’re buying into it. I think they’re enjoying it.
I haven’t asked them in case they say no”
Cotterill confirmed the club are looking to bring in another striker following George Miller’s injury, though he admitted suitable options are hard to find outside the transfer window.
“We definitely need another striker,” he said. “But they’re hard to come by, especially one who’s fit, wants to come, and fits the budget.
“For now, we’ll keep improving what we’ve got and keep picking up points.”
Despite the disappointment of another late goal, Cotterill insisted there are plenty of positives to take.
“It’s another point, a couple of games unbeaten, and something to build on,” he concluded. “We’re heading in the right direction.”
