question about ownership and scripts

[mace]

I have a script that I want to put into production. But something wierd happens to it.
What I want to do is tar a file if it matches todays date.
When I execute it as a normal user the awk commands pick up the correct area of the file name. BUT if I execute it as root the areas are one off.
IE
filename aaa.bbb.ccc.ddd.eee.fff
If I need area fff I get it as a normal user but as root the eee area is picked up.
What is the diff??
thanks
Mace

[Sivel]

It's difficult to debug a script without seeing the script...

Posting the script may be beneficial when expecting an answer.