Greene upset at lack of commitment (26.08.05)

‘We must work our socks off’ says boss

WITH just three matches gone of the new season, the Magpies are already faced with the task of rebuilding their confidence.
On Saturday, against a very strong Cambridge City team, Maidenhead United were crushed 5-0 in front of their own fans in what, on paper at least, looks like a thrashing.
Manager Dennis Greene was less than impressed with the final outcome, but thought his side performed well for 40 minutes.
He said: “I suppose it looks like a thrashing, and I suppose the second half probably was.
“However, we matched them for 40 minutes and were doing well, especially as they are one of the promotion favourites and we are one of the relegation favourites.
“But we let in two late, sloppy goals before half-time, although I thought their second goal was off-side.
“During the break we spoke about getting back into the contest, and shorty after the re-start Robert Traynor had a one-on-one with the keeper.
“But he didn’t score, and when Cambridge bagged their third, that was that.”
He added: “When the third goal went in, I think some of our guys let their heads down.
“To be honest, after that Cambridge could have scored any number.”
But it was the lack of commitment which most annoyed the Magpies boss.
He said: “The manner of the defeat was unacceptable. We stopped working and we must never do that.
“Cambridge have now won by three, four and five goals because they keep up their levels for 90 minutes.
“So far we’re doing it for 40 minutes.
“Whatever happens, we must carry on working our socks off.”
In an effort to find the right combination, and bring some energy to the squad, Greene is looking to sign three new players this week.
He said: “I’m sure I’ll have two by tonight (Thursday) and hopefully one more tomorrow.
“However, this doesn’t mean an increase in the squad size as we don’t have the money. Players in means players out.”
Greene is hoping the new faces will kick-start proceedings ahead of tomorrow’s (Saturday’s) clash at Hayes.
Greene commented: “We can go to Hayes and get a win.
“I’m optimistic about that. But we have to work hard.
“I hope the new blood will give some of the players a kick in the pants.
“I’m looking for a good reaction which I’m sure I’ll get.”
On Bank Holiday Monday, the Magpies entertain Thurrock, who have also not had the best of starts to the season.
Greene said: “The problem with this time of the season is that it’s too early to tell how it will all pan out.
“Wait until about 10-15 matches in, then the picture will be clearer.”