MATTHEW BATES admits Hartlepool United’s defeat at Exeter was tough to take.

After an impressive display in central midfield, Bates emerged to insist Pools didn’t deserve defeat at Exeter, the reverse coming after a goal in second-half stoppage time.

"It’s a gut-wrenching end, it was a fairly even game,’’ he reflected. "Had we scored the penalty I think we'd have nicked it.

"I think we deserved at least a point, if not all three.

"The lads were gutted, the team worked so hard. Exeter are a good football side, who drag you all over the pitch.

"We played good football in parts and when we look back in a day or two, we'll take positives from it.

"We created chances, kept the ball well at times and defended well for the most part.

"But it's swings and roundabouts, it's hard to take.’’

Bates, who was left behind by the team bus at St James’ Park while he was conducing post-match media duties before being picked up along with the club’s media manager, added: "There is little to choose between teams at this level ability-wise.

"We've had chances, missed a penalty and Rhys (Oates) has had a good chance. I one of them had gone in it could have been a different game.’’

Bates returned from injury, suffered three weeks earlier at Stevenage, to take his spot in a three-man midfield and added: "I'm pleased, I've only trained a couple of times in the last couple of weeks with my calf strain, but it's good to be back.

"It was hard work and I haven't trained much but I hope I can stay in the team."