UNITED manager Martin Ling is still full of belief ahead of Thursday's play-off semi-final second leg at Plainmoor.

A 2-0 defeat at Cheltenham has obviously made the Robins big favourites but the first goal will be crucial, and the Gulls remain full of hope.

However, the dream will need to be achieved without leading scorer Rene Howe, who limped off at Whaddon Road with a hamstring problem.

"We're not dead yet," said Martin. "Rene won't make the second leg and we'll now come up with a game-plan without him.

"Cheltenham are massive favourites but it's still game-on as far as I'm concerned. We have our backs against the wall and it will require a monumental effort by us, but we are still in the tie. The first goal at Plainmoor will be all-important.

"I thought 2-0 was a bit harsh on us. The better team won the game but we had plenty of chances, and games are sometimes won and lost on fine lines.

"Ryan Jarvis had a good chance in the first half and, if he scored with his header just after it went 2-0 early, it might have been very different.

"We need the first goal on Thursday and then anything can happen."