Cox’s side had been in good form ahead of the match and were unbeaten since the 3rd of January after ending a torrid run of results over the festive period.

But Altrincham’s Jimmy Knowles’ 35th-minute strike was ultimately the difference between the two sides, despite Wealdstone conjuring numerous chances to take something from the game.

“It’s a really bitter pill to take from the way that we played on the ball,” Cox told the Stones website. “I think with the possession that we had and the opportunities that were created, if you probably look at the balance of the game, you’d like to think that we did enough.

“But ultimately we’ve had those opportunities in the final third, and we haven’t worked the goalkeeper enough, and we’ve been punished from a set piece down the other end in a second phase. It was a really scrappy goal that we’ve conceded, which makes it even tougher to take.”

Wealdstone’s Connor McAvoy waved his arms in protest for a late penalty after being brought down inside the Altrincham box, but his appeal was disregarded by referee Callum Jones.

Speaking on the penalty shout, Cox was clearly frustrated as the chance to salvage a point at the death was waved away.

“I’ve seen it back. I’ve spoken to the referee as well, and for me it’s a stonewall penalty,” said Cox. “I think that’s probably why it feels so disappointing to walk away with nothing here today. It was a big moment and a big shout.

“I think it’s a clear penalty. Someone like Connor McAvoy, who finds himself in the penalty box so close to goal, doesn’t go down without contact. Everyone around us knew it, and I think Gibbo (Altrincham boss Neil Gibson) knew it too. The only person who hasn’t seen it, unfortunately, is the referee.

“We can only control the moments that happen in the game, and if we go back to those penalty box opportunities that we have, we’ve got to do more to work the goalkeeper and score one of those many chances.

“The penalty [decision not to award it] is out of our hands, but it does make it a more bitter pill to take when it’s so clear.”

Wealdstone host promotion-chasing York City at Grosvenor Vale on Saturday, looking to avenge some unfortunate recent events, as the Stones have taken just a point from their last two league fixtures.

“The Vale has been a fortress for us this season. It’s a place we love playing at, so we’re going to have to be real foot to the pedal against York,” added Cox. “For me, they are one of the best, if not the best, football sides in the division.

“It’s going to be really tough, but we’ve certainly got to take a lot of positives from the last two games in possession. It’s just now that last little bit [taking chances].

“That’s the difference between being a middle-half National League side and a top seven side that are ruthless.”

Courtesy of Harrow Times | Local News