Duffield 'fed up' with criticism of playing style

Duffield's side have already booked their place in the Evo-Stik League First Division South play-offs and are on a six-match winning streak.

But the manager feels his team are not getting the credit they deserve – and have been wrongly labelled "direct" and "physical".

On this occasion, Duffield's frustration is directed at Rainworth Miners Welfare player-boss Scott Rickards.

Rickards was sent off during Belper's 4-1 win for violent conduct after clashing with Colin Marrison.

The Rainworth boss said: "There had been a bit of a build-up to the incident.

"I moved my leg, not forcefully, but their lad has made a bit of a meal of it in front of his own dugout, they have responded, and the referee has bought it.

"But I have to take the responsibility for leaving the team in that situation to cope with a physical, direct side."

Duffield responded: "It's amazing the number of times we've beaten teams convincingly and their manager or chairmen have criticised us for the way we play.

"I'm fed up with it.

"We've been called a direct, physical team but that's not the case.

"That suggests we just go around kicking people but we've not had one player sent off – or even suspended – this season. I'm proud of that.

"Yes, we get in people's faces and make it hard for the opposition – but so do Liverpool and Chelsea.

"The Rainworth manager had a go after last week's game – and he had got himself sent off!

"He claimed it was our fault. If he wants to blame the opposition when he's let his team down, that's up to him.

"But he kicked Colin – you're the manager, so don't kick someone!

"Look at your own team – leave our team alone."

With Belper's slim title hopes now officially ended, Duffield plans to utilise his squad for the Easter double-header at home to Brigg Town tomorrow and away to Sheffield on Monday.

Defender Dan White (ankle) will not be risked against Brigg.

Source: Derby Telegraph