A 4-1 defeat ensured an all too familiar feeling for Belper, as they matched their opponents for two thirds of the game, only to suffer a heavy defeat after 90 minutes.

Player Manager Jon Froggatt (pictured) placed on record an apology to the supporters, insisting they deserved better following their loyal support.

"First and foremost I'm just sorry to the fans.

“After two wins, especially the win on Tuesday against Stamford where we've played brilliantly, to suddenly produce that sort of display at home is not acceptable.

"Tuesday night was fantastic for us. We scored in the first half and produced an excellent defensive display and everyone fought for each other.

“But on Saturday it was back to square one again, where we continued to make silly errors which are costing this team dearly.

"I said a few weeks ago it feels like one steps forward and two steps backward and we're left with a similar feeling again.

“I was genuinely confident we could build on our two wins.

"That said, we play Marine next Saturday at home, and if it wasn't already, it certainly is a game that we must take points from, preferably a win.

"With the signings we've made since Mark and I have been in charge, we've bought players in that have played at this level and know how to win games, so we know we're good enough.

"It's one of them situations where, if Mark and I had of taken over this club whilst sitting in mid-table, then we'd probably still be mid-table now, but because we're down the bottom, the confidence is a little low and things go against us."

Froggatt refused to get sucked into negativity, suggesting the next two games could result in a good spell for Belper, should the results go their way.

"We beat Grantham in the cup but then beat Stamford in the league.

“Yes, we lost on Saturday, but our next two games are against teams that we are more than capable of taking points from, and if we can do that, then we can look back over the five games and say it's actually been a good run for us."

"Of course, it's easier said than done, and it's all about going out there and producing it, not just talking the talk.

“But I know that we're good enough to do it, the players just need to keep believing in themselves."

The Nailers host their next fixture at the Marston's Stadium against third bottom Marine, which is a vital fixture as only a point separates the two sides.