Here's to you, Danny Robinson

Hungerford Town boss Danny Robinson reflected on a memorable 100 games in charge of the Crusaders following Saturday’s disappointing 1-1 draw with local rivals Chippenham.

Bluebirds substitute Craig Fasanmade cancelled out Joel Rollinson’s opener in the 91st minute after Hungerford full-back Ryan Jones had been sent off for what the referee deemed to be a second bookable offence.

Robinson cut a frustrated figure at full time, having seen his side dominate in the second half only to have three points snatched from them at the death after former Crusaders goalkeeper Will Henry kept the visitors in the game with a succession of spectacular saves.

“Up until the 86th minute when Ryan Jones got sent off, we were by far the better side,” Robinson said.

“We missed some guilt edged chances and their goalkeeper’s had a brilliant game, he’s pulled off some of the best saves I’ve ever seen down here.

“I can’t fault a single one of my players today, in terms of desire, determination and commitment to play for Hungerford Town they were superb.

“We’ve just been done by a shocking refereeing decision, I never blame referees but that was soft.

“If that’s a booking, then football’s going to be a non-contact sport very soon.”

Robinson’s 100th game comes at one of the most difficult points in his tenure, with the Crusaders rock bottom of the National League South and staring relegation in the face, but his positive impact at the club should not be understated – last season, he guided the club to a 12th placed finish, their second highest in Hungerford’s 137 year history.

“I didn’t even know until this morning,” he said.

“It’s been an absolute privilege and an honour to manage one of my local clubs, and to do it for the amazing supporters we have here.

“I hope to God that Hungerford Town fans look at me in a fond way, we’ve just got to get through this tricky period.”

Saturday’s game was the first in a run of six successive home games that will see the Crusaders welcome a number of sides in the top half of the league as well as National League North outfit Farsley Celtic in the FA Trophy fifth round.

“We’ve got so much to look forward to,” Robinson said.

“If we can put a few wins at home on the board, we can still get out of this.

“Come what may, we’ll still be proud to be Hungerford Town.”