Steve Cotterill hails Cheltenham homecoming as ‘just perfect’

Steve Cotterill hailed his Cheltenham homecoming as “just perfect” as his second reign began with a 2-0 home win over Fleetwood.

Cotterill was unveiled as Michael Flynn’s successor on Tuesday, returning to a club he guided to three promotions between 1997 and 2002.

After a goalless opening 45 minutes, Isaac Hutchinson took centre stage with the opening goal and then an assist for Josh Martin to double the lead.

“It was a big day for the players, with a lot of pressure on them, with me coming back, but it was just perfect,” Cotterill said.

“I thanked the players in there for all their help, not only for today but for this week. It’s been quite an unbelievable day really.”

Cotterill was clearly emotional as he lapped the pitch to enjoy a special moment with the fans of his hometown club after only their second League Two win of the season.

“The emotion hadn’t kicked in until the end of the game and then, when I did feel emotional.

“Going back round the pitch, Cheltenham will always be my home, whether I live here or not.

“It’s always a club I’ve looked at for their results, teams, formations and that’s not left me even in the time I haven’t been here.

“So to be able to come back today on what was quite a special day really, the end was really emotional.

“I said to the players after that I didn’t want to talk too much because there might be a tear or two, but I managed to hold it together!”

The deadlock was broken in the 66th minute when Ethon Archer fed Hutchinson and the Bristol Rovers loanee found the bottom right corner from the edge of the box.

After good work from Jake Bickerstaff, Hutchinson then played in Martin, who applied a delicate finish past the helpless Jay Lynch in the 69th minute to seal the points.

Pete Wild questioned his team’s desire and effort as they returned north empty-handed, sympathising with the frustrated travelling supporters.

“That wasn’t good enough,” he said. “We had six or seven chances, more than half chances, but we don’t win tackles and it cost us.

“No desire, and the other team worked harder than us. That’s the most disappointing thing.

“Out of possession we weren’t good enough, and when you’re half a yard off it you get beat.

“The desire and effort wasn’t there, and you don’t win football matches like that.

“The fans have the right to be frustrated. They’ve paid money to come down and the performance didn’t match their desire to come to the match.

“There should be a few who apologise to the fans.”