ALTON Town played better than the score suggests in a game they were perhaps not expected to win at fifth-placed Thatcham on Saturday.
But Dave Hawtin has made it clear that he expects better things over the next few weeks when Alton have a kinder run of fixtures, nearly all at home.
"I've told the players I want at least 10 out of 15 points," said the Alton manager. "We're getting players back from injury and the team is quite capable of winning these games over the next month."
Alton had a weakened side for the trip to Thatcham and made life even more difficult for themselves by conceding a penalty after two minutes.
Jayme Sporton was the culprit after a misunderstanding with Nicky Guy, and Bob McClay duly converted for the home side.
The visitors did much better after that and even enjoyed territorial dominance. Despite losing Danny McGarry to injury, they made the better chances.
Dave Bridger and Clive Ventham missed good openings and Alton considered themselves unlucky when a shot from Simon Pullman appeared to be handled by a defender.
After a bright start to the second half, Alton conceded a free-kick on a fast breakaway by Thatcham. The delivery was perfect and Russell Green headed a fine goal to put his side in the driving seat.
Alton were now flagging, with Guy and Simon Chivers feeling the effects of their recent injuries, and Shaun Cook added a third for Thatcham with two minutes to go.
Alton hope to have John Edwards, Lewis Field and Brian Wood back in the squad for the home match against Brockenhurst this Saturday.
Alton: Sladen, Guy, Larvan, Bray, Chivers, Ventham, Sporton, Pullman, McGarry (Mealey 21 mins), Dyer, Bridger. Sub (not used) Frisby.