Painter says Eastbourne were there for the taking

A last-gasp Tiago Andrade penalty grabbed them a point in a 1-1 draw with the runner-ups, but the Bears boss felt it could have been more.

Brett Patton gave the hosts the lead midway through the second half, before Andrade’s spot kick in the 93rd minute rescued them a point.

Painter said: “I said to the lads afterwards it was a point gained, but I also think we left two down there. They were there for the taking. Yes, they had more possession, but with their 300 supporters there and their quality they are bound to have.

“It’s a cracking point. Michael Chester (goalkeeper) was good again, but only made three or four saves. We had our chances. I am delighted, we have had a great week, beating AFC Uckfield, Loxwood and a point down there. We are on 60 points as well and have moved above Eastbourne United - we have to finish the job now at Shoreham.

“I am over the moon with how the season has gone. Yes, you will always look to where you have dropped points, but we have had some great highs; beating the champions, only two sides have done that.”

Don’t miss out on all the latest breaking news where you live.

Here are four ways you can be sure you’ll be amongst the first to know what’s going on.

1 Make this website your homepage

2 Like our Facebook page at facebook.com/pages/Sport-Sussex

3 Follow us on Twitter @SportSussex

4 Register with us by clicking on ‘sign in’ (top right corner). You can then receive our daily newsletter AND add your point of view to stories that you read here.

And do share with your family and friends - so they don’t miss out!