Steve Brooker felt he was robbed of a dream return in City colours in the 2-1 defeat at Cardiff.

On his first appearance of the season, the striker had seemingly put City 2-1 up at Ninian Park - only to be flagged offside by the narrowest of margins.

And seconds later Cardiff earned a spot-kick to win the game through Peter Whittingham's late rebound effort.

Speaking to bcfc.co.uk, Steve said: "I felt it was legitimate but obviously the linesman has seen something.

"I wasn't expecting a flag, as you can tell by the way I ran off. I thought I had scored the winner, I was a bit deflated to be honest.

"One minute we think we've won the game, then straight after we're disappointed to be behind. Marv's put his hands up and said it was a penalty, but Basso made a great save only to be unlucky with the rebound.

"I feel I've been robbed of a dream return. I said it when I first came to the club and it's appropriate again now, getting that first goal is vital.

"I came on with us one down to a big cheer, which was nice. It was all about getting into the game for me and trying to get a goal, which I thought I had."

Steve will be hoping to be involved again when City entertain Norwich at Ashton Gate on Saturday.

And after five games without a win, the striker feels it's getting to the stage of must-win games.

He said: "We know we can't keep relying on other results. We need to get some wins and some points on the board again."