Redbridge's George Monger takes evasive action against Ilford. Pic: Rosalind Butt

Robinson in optimistic mood

Redbridge co-manager Del Robinson is looking forward to the trip to Needham Market on Saturday after a 1-1 home draw with fellow strugglers Ilford last weekend, writes Kirk Blows.

Mid-table Needham have failed to win any of their 14 home league games so far this season, while the Motormen have collected all but four of their 14 points away from home.

The draw against Ilford ensured their local rivals did not leapfrog Redbridge and dump them to the bottom of the Ryman One North table. And Robinson believes his strugglers can pick up a positive result on Saturday.

He said: “We’re looking forward to the Needham game. We’ve done better away from home so far this season, so we can be optimistic.

“As a group they’re a very honest bunch, so I believe in them 100 per cent and as time goes by they will be good players for us.”

While rival boss Kevin Lucas insisted Ilford should have won the battle of the basement boys last weekend, Robinson also believes his side could have secured an important victory.

Jacob Cleaver gave them an early lead before Dan Crowie replied four minutes before half-time.

Lee Martin, on loan from Dartford, was unable to take advantage of a good chance to double the home side’s lead with the score still at 1-0 and Robinson said: “I’m thankful for the point but we had opportunities to take all three.

“The game could have gone either way.

“I expected Lee to score because — at this level — that’s what he’s supposed to do. But it’s a learning curve and that’s what it’s all about.”

Michael Bowditch came in for Dean Neil in goal and Robinson insists he has every faith in the young keeper.

He added: “We need to give him confidence and we’re doing that by showing we’re brave enough to play him in games.”