Nathan Haslam was quick to acknowledge his disappointment with Saturday’s defeat by Guisborough but highlighted the importance of seeing every member of his squad in action as he plans ahead for next season.
“It was not a good afternoon, I was disappointed with us defensively in a big way, and collectively as a team. Four very easy goals for them, we’ve not deserved anything out of the game today. I’ve stuck to what I said I’d do and everybody’s had a chance now. I’ve seen six games, I’ve seen the good, the bad and the ugly and it’s very important that I see the bad and the ugly because that reiterates things for me going forward to the summer. I’m pretty convinced I know where we need to strengthen as a squad. I’m gutted we’ve lost obviously, but at the same time it’s bitter-sweet for me because I’ve seen things I need to see. The highest we could have finished when I came in was 12th and we’re still on course to finish 12th.
“It happens at a lot of clubs that with just few games left, players just want to see the season out but anybody who knows me knows that’s not acceptable and we play to the end, so the lads have been told those levels aren’t acceptable..and if they think they are, then unfortunately they won’t be with us next season.
“I was very mindful that there were certain players that I needed to have a look at and get a fair crack of the whip so today was all about that really. Jon-Jon Wright hasn’t played in a while but I do know him and he’s come through with flying colours and with a great goal. He’s a thinker, he makes smart runs and any team of mine going forward is about thinking and making good and smart decisions. The boys have got to get to know me obviously but it’s just disappointing that we weren’t doing the right things today. I keep saying to the lads if you keep doing the right things there’s a very good chance that you’re going to win a game of football at this level. But Guisborough, fair play to them, looked dangerous in all corners.
“I don’t think it was a case that we weren’t good enough, I just don’t think we wanted it enough. Their challenging was stronger, they were winning first and second balls. Maybe they needed the points more than us but there’s no excuse in saying that, we just didn’t get the basics right today.”
Looking ahead to the final two games of the season, he added “Everybody’s had their chance now, so based on what we’ve got, the squad I’ve inherited, I will be playing my best eleven now. I really want to end the season on a high so will be playing the strongest eleven available.”
