Pagham boss reflects on 'awful day at the office' against East Preston

Hardwell said: "That was an awful day at the office after Tuesday’s night great win at Steyning. The performance we put on was flat, we lacked desire commitment and most of all work rate.

"We struggled to make six consecutive passes throughout 90 minutes. I made nine changes from Tuesday’s starting 11 with only one outfield player keeping his place so I will take full responsibility as manager for the defeat as nine changes really did stop the flow of our performance.

"However what disappointed me was the lack of work rate individuals gave me when they had the chance to nail down a shirt.

East Preston v Pagham picture special.

"The game was one of few chances for both teams and the East Preston really did work hard for each other."

The only goal came eight minutes into the second half when EP put away a penalty - one that Pagham felt was soft.

Tempers flared at the end of the game and the Lions' Nathan da Costa was sent off along with an East Preston player.

Hardwell said: "We now move to Tuesday night's game at home to Lancing - which is now a must win game for us - and I’ll be hoping for a major reaction from the boys."

Here's how the group table looks today