There was relief at Cinderford Town as they finally got their first points on the board at the seventh time of asking in the Pitching In Southern League Division One South at the weekend.
They recovered from falling behind midway through the opening period at Westbury United to secure a 2-1 victory.
Skipper, Adam Davies, drew them level in first half stoppage time before Joe Keeping struck the winner seven minutes from time to get the Gloucestershire club up-and-running.
“We’re over the moon to get the first three points on the board,” said defender Davies, who is one of the experienced heads in the side. “We’ve been close in the majority of our games this season but either haven’t quite held on or we’ve made a mistake that’s cost us.
“It was nice to be able to see this one out and it also had the added bonus of getting my name on the scoresheet.
“It’s always a great feeling to score but to do it and win on the road at the same time made it extra special.
“We haven’t been far away with our performances so far this season; as a group we all knew the first win wasn’t far away.
“The jump from Step 5 to Step 4 is a big one, so we always knew it was going to be difficult for us to compete in what is a strong and competitive League, but even through these difficult early weeks of the season, our togetherness has shone through.
“You learn a lot about those around you when things aren’t going your way and it’s clear we have a great group here who all stick together and there’s enough experience around the place to get us out of the difficult periods.
“I’ve played over 300 games at this level and every year the standard just gets better and better. Hopefully I can use my experience to help us push on from here now and start to build some momentum.
“If we can maintain our place at this level, it will be a massive achievement this season. What we need to do now is get on a bit of a run that will start moving us up the table.”
Davies has the benefit of a decade at hometown club, Merthyr Town under his belt having started his career within the youth ranks at Cardiff City. He joined The Foresters a year ago and played his part in helping them regain their Southern League status, which they lost after a 28-year stay at the end of the 2022/23 season, at the first attempt.
He will lead his side into battle on Tuesday evening as they return to home action with the visit of leaders, Yate Town.
IMAGE: Cinderford Town FC
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