REDDITCH boss Matt Clarke couldn’t see if his glass was half-empty or full after a dramatic finale ruined the perfect day at the Valley.
The Southern Premier Division Central club threw open its doors to the community with a ‘Football, free for all’ day.
And the Reds were almost rewarded for their goodwill in the best possible manner as they took a lead into injury-time against league leaders Bedford Town.
Anthony Dwyer’s finish midway through the second period looked to have secured the points for Clarke’s side in front of a crowd of 1,470 – around almost double their usual gate.
But a penalty in the dying seconds, scored by Bedford’s leading scorer Leon Lobjoit ruined the afternoon, leaving Clarke with mixed emotions at the final whistle.
He said: “It’ll take a copule of days to sink in. We’ve given a penalty away with the last kick of the game. We’ve not been in any danger to be honest.
“We’ve had one defeat at home in 12 or 13. Would we have taken a point before the start? Probably. But we’re disappointed not to win the game.”
Asked about the club’s initiative, he added: “It’s not pressure, playing in front of so many. It was a privilege and with so many kids there, the place was given a real bounce by the great energy.
“It was a shame we didn’t get the three points but otherwise it was a fantastic day all round.”
