By James Barrett

Carshalton Athletic boss Tommy Williams was left “bitterly disappointed” after his side’s Ryman Premier Division opener ended in defeat.

The Robins travelled to Wingate & Finchley after a pre-season full of positive results, but an early converted penalty and three second half goals saw them return home on the wrong side of a 4-0 loss.

“I cannot take much positive away from this trip,” said Williams.

“We did not perform anywhere near the positive displays we had over pre-season. We failed to get on the front foot and they took their chances.”

But two strange refereeing decisions, plus two good saves by Wingate keeper Bobby Smith, also compounded Carshalton’s miserable afternoon.

At 2-0 down Carshalton sub Joe Nwoko was fouled on the edge of the area but, as the linesman waved his flagged to give him the decision, referee Waters waved play on and Wingate broke to score their third.

“That, and the time it took to award them their penalty in the first half, did not help our cause,” added Williams, who was describing the fact Waters was seemingly not going to point to the spot until his assistant belatedly raised his flag.

“We had a bad day at the office and I made my feelings very clear to the lads after the game,” he added.

“They were all disappointed too and we all know we have to put things right on Tuesday night.”

Carshalton welcome newly-promoted Maidstone United to Colston Avenue on Tuesday (kick off 7.45pm).