Buckle is impressed as Robins dig deep
NEW boss Paul Buckle was impressed with Cheltenham Town’s resilience as his first match in charge ended in a share of the spoils with Oxford United.
The Robins led through Byron Harrison’s 52ndminute strike before Tyrone Barnett levelled.
And only some superb goalkeeping from Trevor Carson denied Oxford all three points, much to new manager Buckle’s delight come the final whistle.
“I am really pleased because it was a different experience for me coming in the way I did, so suddenly,” said Buckle, who was named Mark Yates’ successor on Wednesday.
“I have to be thankful for the fans and everyone at the club. The players gave everything and we have to be happy with a point.
“I am sure Oxford will be disappointed they didn’t win the game and our goalkeeper was man of the match.
“Barnett looked a threat all day and buried his chance for the goal, but we then showed some real resilience and I am happy with that.
“They are a good side and I was keen for my players to go and show their appreciation at the end because the fans were brilliant.”
Barnett was denied by Carson’s block in the 15th minute, before Joe Riley’s free-kick cannoned back off the bar and Carson saved with his legs to keep out Alfie Potter’s shot.
Cheltenham stood firm and took the lead when Jack Deaman’s inviting cross from the right was converted by Harrison, who netted his fifth goal in four games.
Barnett levelled in the 61st minute after Whing’s pass and Oxford pressed for a winner, but they could find no way past the inspired Carson, who blocked well from Riley twice and saved with an outstretched leg to deny Danny Hylton.
Frustrated Michael Appleton felt Oxford should have been celebrating an away victory as they missed a host of clear chances.
“The amount of chances we’ve created were enough to win three or four games,” he said.
“I was happy that when we did concede against the run of play, the response of the players was very good and we didn’t feel sorry for ourselves.We got one goal and should have had three or four more.
“The lads mixed it up well and we passed it quite well. I am disappointed with the result, but I have to be happy with everything else.
“Tyrone Barnett looked good when he came on last week and now he has scored and could have had another.
“It was a good pass from Andy Whing, who sat in front of the back four and did a good job for us and hopefully we’ll see more of that.”