STAND ATHLETIC ... 1 HINDSFORD ... 1: THERE is much to be admired about this new Stand side as it emerges from the rubble of last year's collapse.

It's a young side - only two of the squad are over 21 - but one packed with natural ability, youthful exuberance and future potential.

It is early days, though, to decide whether that potential can be fulfilled.

This was the fourth home game of the season - the previous three all having been conceded by the same 2-4 scoreline.

Two of those games have been lost in the last minute with Stand deliberately pressing for an equaliser.

There are no signs that this ill-fortune has caused anything other than a strengthening of resolve - a belief that if we stick together, we'll thrive together.

Physically, Stand are coping acceptably and, if inexperience has occasionally shown through, it is portrayed by momentary lapses of concentration rather than by tactical naivety.

Looking on the bright side, there was but a single lapse - and it cost Stand their first win of the season when hesitation in the six-yard box allowed Hindsford to score a soft equaliser with just twelve minutes left on the clock.

Stand's goals thus year have largely been the preoccupation of Adam Dickinson.

Having demonstrated a predilection for striking his best

efforts straight down the goalkeeper's throat, he turned creator, playing in Andy Moore for a patiently taken first of the season after 50 minutes.

Dickinson subsequently struck the foot of a post, not the only occasion on which they may have extended their lead. But, one lapse cost Athletic dear and the players will be slightly disappointed they didn't complete the win.

Overall, things are looking good for Athletic.