Interim boss makes confidence admission after Stafford Rangers slump again
Interim boss Graham Deakin admitted Stafford Rangers are suffering a lack of confidence after Saturday’s defeat at league leaders Widnes left them mired in relegation danger.
The 2-0 loss was the Boro’s fifth in six Northern Premier League West Division matches and they now sit five points from safety.
Deakin, who has taken charge of the team since Dale Belford stepped down earlier this month, conceded there is currently a lack of belief in the ranks.
He said: “It’s a bit like it has been all season. We were punished for our mistakes.
“We started sloppy and then we grew into the game. But it is the story of the season so far, they were clinical in front of goal and we weren’t.
“In the second half we didn’t really land a glove on them.
“They are a group who has lost a lot of matches and there is a lack of confidence. When you go 2-0 down it is tough to get back in the game.”
Hednesford Town remain in the play-off positions despite being held to a 0-0 draw by Avro.
“I thought in the first half we dominated but the only thing which matters is the scoreline,” said boss Gavin Hurren.
“They are a well organised team and the frustration is we did not make the most of our opportunities from set-pieces.
“On the whole, I am happy. Yes, I am disappointed we have not won but if you can’t win, don’t lose.”
Chasetown missed the chance to take advantage and climb over their rivals in the table as they were beaten 2-1 at Wythenshawe Town.
Two goals from Chinedu Uche put the hosts in control and though Oli Haywood pulled one back for the visitors, they could not find a leveller.
Andre Landell was at the double to keep Sporting Khalsa firmly in the Central Division promotion hunt. His brace was enough to earn a 2-1 win at Rugby Town, for whom Trey Charles netted to set up a nervy finish for the visitors.
Darlaston Town continue to impress after recording a comfortable 3-0 win over Loughborough Students. Rivel Mardenborough opened the scoring in the first half, before Leo Wood and Ewan Edwards netted after the break for Dean Gill’s men.
Lye Town put recent defensive woes behind them to register a 0-0 draw at Grantham Town. The visitors had conceded 11 in their last two matches but put in a much improved performance at the back to claim a point.
