Robinson ‘fuming’ with Hungerford trophy exit, as Adulai Sambu returns
Hungerford Town manager Danny Robinson was left “fuming” after his side conceded twice in the last six minutes to exit the FA Trophy.
A Louis McGrory penalty levelled things up for the Crusaders against visitors Yate Town, after the Gloucestershire side had gone 1-0 up in the second minute of the game.
Jacob Bancroft finished a Zidan Akers pass to put Hungerford ahead in the 63rd minute, but disaster struck as Yate scored twice late on to win the game and knock Robinson’s side out.
“Yate were better than us in the first half, they fully deserved to be winning,” he said.
“After a rocket at half time we were the better team in the second half.
“The last six minutes is probably the worst I’ve ever had in football.
“We even had the chance to win it at 2-2 and we hit it straight at the keeper.
“Literally a minute later they go up the other end and get the winner.
“I think fuming is probably the best word.
“Have I simmered down yet? No. Not really.
“The FA Trophy brings in money, and it's money we’re in desperate need of.
“I’m absolutely gutted.”
Last week saw movement on the transfer front, starting with centre-back Jack Wright who departed to join Shaftesbury.
“A fantastic bloke, fantastic character and a very good footballer,” Robinson reflected.
“He just wanted to know he’d turn up on a Saturday and play.
“He’s dropped down a level because he wants to play and I can’t begrudge that.
“He’s probably far too good for step four level, but it’s a lot closer to his home too. I wish him all the best, he’ll be missed.”
There was exciting news too, as the club announced the return of popular winger Adulai Sambu.
The 20-year-old Lisbon-born wideman scored nine in 28 games for Hungerford last year on loan from Cheltenham Town.
Having been released in the summer, a spell with Vanarama North side Rushall Olympic proved to be unproductive, leading the youngster back to Bulpit Lane.
“What Adulai did for us last season… he was brilliant for us,” Robinson said.
“He’s tried his luck at a higher level and it’s not worked out.
“He’s nowhere near fit if I’m brutally honest, we need to get him up to speed.
“But fingers crossed he can replicate what he did for us last year.”
Joining Sambu is 16-year-old Northern Irish midfielder Isaac Hughes, who arrives on a work experience deal from Forest Green Rovers.
“He won the penalty on Saturday and did really well.
“That was his first ever senior game.
“He’s a talent, you could tell in the first training session, a special talent.
“We have to look after him, but he’s had a brilliant start.”