PETERSFIELD head coach James Alder was frustrated after his side’s narrow defeat at Teddington on Saturday.

Alder said: “This was a very frustrating game after a good week of preparation and feels very much like a game we lost rather than one in which we were beaten.

“We remain within reach of the others at the foot of the table and are positive that we have the ability to climb out of danger.

“Again, we saw some huge positives during the game with the forwards showing their fighting spirit in the set piece and ruck area.

“The backs worked hard throughout and at times looked very slick in spite of the heavy conditions.

“Nick Blumlein provides a great kicking game which provided territory and scoring opportunities.

“When we were down to just 13 players on the pitch, the unity and fighting spirit of the team was great to witness. We know we have heart, but in these types of games, we do need to manage the game better and remove any chance to be penalised and make the result clear.

“On the down side, we once again are at the mercy of injuries and face the possibility of losing both Jack Lumbard and Josh Haslett for long periods.

“We have to be positive in the face of this adversity and challenge others to take up the mantle dropped by those who put their bodies on the line for their club.

“On Saturday, this was Eddie Matthews who was asked to move from his wing to the pivotal scrum-half role and was awarded man-of-the-match for a solid performance.”