SAM MOODY was left to feel gutted after Maidenhead Crown failed to capitalise on a two-goal lead in the 2-2 draw with AFC Phoenix Plough on Sunday.

Maidenhead boss Moody has targeted a top-half finish in the re-vamped Division One this season and he had set his sights on three points at Desborough Park.

A home win looked on the cards when both Ryan Baptista and Matthew Hillier hit the target, but Phoenix recovered late in the game to make it honours even.

Speaking to the Observer, Moody bemoaned: “We both had chances in the first 45 minutes but 0-0 was a fair reflection. We probably had the better scoring opportunities but we squandered them.

“We then went two goals ahead and, no matter what level of football it is you use your head and shut up shop to make the three points yours, but that was not the case.

“Phoenix scored and we were hanging on, then they equalised with four minutes to go.

“It’s sad because I had set my sights on three points before the match and was a little gutted not to get them, but on the day we didn’t do enough to win so a draw was a fair result.

“The league has had a restructure in terms of its constitution and this was one of those games at home that I expected to get three points from, so I feel it’s two dropped.

“If you speak with the young lads in our side they will tell you we smashed them but, for me, when you have a lead you need to use your experience and shut up shop.”

Maidenhead Crown welcome Langley Galaxy, champions of the second tier last season, this Sunday (10.30am).

Speculating on where The Crown might finish in the league table this term, Moody said: “I targeted a finish between third and fifth before a ball was kicked, but sadly Sunday didn’t quite go to plan.

“We will not be in the top two because Real Milan and Bentons will run away with that. Below that, there will be two divisions in one, the bottom two and teams that can finish between third and eighth.”

On the cup competitions this season, he added: “I truly believe in cups and we will be looking to win one. When you get through it keeps the boys happy so we will be looking forward to the draws."

Check out the Observer sports Facebook page. Search: Robert Observer Sport and like, follow and share today.