NEW Daisy Hill boss Phil Roberts was left to rue a last-minute defeat at Stockport Town that saw his side drop into the bottom two of the Hallmark Security League First Division.

In his first game in charge, Roberts looked to have steered Daisy to a hard-earned away point before Ben Halfacre netted for the hosts to clinch a 2-1 victory.

Roberts felt his team deserved more on the day but says he takes positives from the display.

Ahead of last night’s LWC Drinks First Division Cup First Round North home tie against Litherland REMYCA, Roberts told The Bolton News: “It was cruel as it was the last kick of the game – there was barely time to kick off again.

“We did well against a good side and set up to be more solid.

“We were unlucky with their first goal, which was deflected twice before beating Craig Haynes, who had very little to do all game.

“We were level after some good play down the right and Richard Coley finished it off just four minutes into the second half.

“But then we had the late sickener, which was so unlucky after a good performance.

“I told the lads afterwards how pleased I was but I bet they are sick of hearing ‘you played well but didn’t have the luck’.

“You know you have played well when the opposition manager praises you as Stockport’s did.

“We got a lot out of the players and we need to do that again in upcoming games.”

Meanwhile, Atherton LR also lost at the weekend, going down 4-1 at home to Sandbach United.

Ryan Mellor gave them a half-time lead but three goals in the last 10 minutes won it for the visitors.

They are also in LWC Drinks First Division Cup First Round North action tonight when they host Carlisle City.