NEW manager Colin Hopkins was left full of optimism after watching his Downton side grind out a valuable point on their return to Division One.

Hopkins, who watched his Robins earn a point in Saturday’s goalless draw at a refurbished Wick Lane, said: “I am extremely pleased we kept a clean sheet against a powerful and organised Cowes side.

“My players battled extremely hard until the final whistle and earned a well-deserved point.

“We now need to focus on our FA Cup game away at Folland Sports (3pm) on Saturday.”