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Defensive frailties again prove costly

Defensive frailties again prove costly

David Laughlin22 Dec 2014 - 14:29
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The Nailers defensive frailties proved costly once more, as they were beaten 4-3 away to Ashton United on Saturday afternoon, writes Joe Malone.

Phil Watt (pictured) was missing through injury, and Chris Jones was left out of the side again as midfielder Ian Ross played at centre half.

Player-boss Jon Froggatt felt his side were superior in every aspect of the game, apart from defending in their own penalty area.

"We deserved to win the game on Saturday, in terms of our overall play.

We didn't deserve to be 3-1 down at half time after taking the lead, and the players did extremely well to get back to 3-3 in the second half.

Unfortunately we've conceded another goal in the last ten minutes that has cost us points.

I've heard people say that the players aren't giving their all for me, but that couldn't be further from the truth and you could see that on Saturday when the lads came back to three-all.

They could have let their heads go and we could have gone on to lose by five, six or seven, but instead they pressed and pressed and we got our equaliser against a very good side who sit fifth in the league."

Froggatt maintained his belief in his players and insists improvements have been made since his reign began.

"First of all, we have accumulated more points since me and Mark have taken over, that's a fact.

And I also strongly believe that our performance level has improved, and that's a qualified opinion.

When Mark and I were brought in to take over as management, we were told we need to improve, and I believe we have done.

Yes, we are still bottom of the league, but the truth is that we are within touching distance of getting out of the relegation zone.

Football is a funny old game, and we see the fortunes change for teams every season.

Sometimes all it takes is a goal to go in off your backside to win you a game, and suddenly the confidence and momentum begins to grow.

These lads can do it, as they are certainly good enough, there is no question about that."

The Nailers next game comes on Boxing Day at home to Ilkeston, with a 3:00pm kick off.

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