Malvern Town manager Lee Hooper admitted Tuesday night's late 2-2 draw with Westfields was a "bitter pill to swallow".
Visiting captain Sam Rawlings scored a 94rd minute equaliser to pinch a late point for Fields in what was the opening game of the 2022/23 Hellenic League Premier campaign.
Matt Turner had put Malvern ahead but a stunning volley from Sean Powell in the first-half equalised.
Turner scored a second with 17 minute to play before Rawlings bundled home a corner in stoppage time.
"It's a bitter pill to swallow, because we should have been out of sight at half-time," said co-manager Hooper after the final whistle.
"Their lad has hit a left footed screamer, so you have to hold your hands up to that but that;s what happens when you don't take your chances.
"We played well throughout the game and we deserved the win but the game is never over until the final whistle, a cliche but it's true.
"Fair play to Westfields, they stuck in the game and they got their reward but we should have won the game."
Malvern will have to get over their disappointment quickly as they turn their attentions to the FA Cup clash with Worcester City on Saturday afternoon.
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