WE had seen the Halifax match before. The previous game against Woking was identical. All the same faults were there. It is too depressing to mention them in detail, but two words stand out; application and attitude.

The whole squad had dressing room dressing down after the final whistle. Correctly so because it is not just the players on duty against Halifax who are responsible for the current malaise. Those of us who watched Woking are well aware of this. All the squad are culpable.

Ady Pennock admitted he understood the fans' frustration and had expected a better display. As previously stated he made changes, anxious to give players game time before the play-offs. With possible Wembley places up for grabs opportunities were there for the taking. Watching the game it was hard to believe this, who was working hard?

Brett Williams was given an opportunity to lead the line, his stated favourite position. Before the end of the game he was moved to the right wing. No further comment is necessary. In contrast Ben Jefford gave a skilful and determined display on his club debut.

There may be one genuine reason for the poor second half display and that in the players feeling proper concern for Sam Wedgbury. Gas and air were given him on the pitch and in the dressing room and he went straight to hospital. No-one could fail to be very concerned. Dale Bennett's problem looked a straight forward hamstring strain and Anthony Jeffrey came off with ankle problems.

Happily Rob Sinclair is now fit. His energy makes him a key player. Welcome back Rob - we need you.

The crowd deserve total praise. Despite the drop in recent games large numbers attended and there was plenty of evidence of a desire to get behind the team. Unfortunately there was no on field response.

Inquests can wait, but a general view is needed now. Many good people worked hard to get the club into the Conference and keep it there but it was essentially a hand to mouth existence and demonstrably not financially sustainable.

The new regime had brought much to the club and the whole match day experience is much better. There are still flaws - for example awards evening appear from nowhere but on the field we have both reassured success and new hope. We can get to Wembley and beyond - what a dream!

To succeed however we have to emerge from this current nightmare.

Ady can encourage, harangue or sympathise and with his strong support team I am sure will do this, but when the players cross the white line and the referee blows his whistle they are on there own.

This squad is an experienced and well paid group and must realise they have professional responsibilities. Success or failure is in their collective hands and if they think "it will be alright on the night" they are dangerously wrong. Success in all walks of life has to be worked for.

Individually, I find the squad to be gracious and engaging but on the field there are serious questions to be answered and of course that applies to all.

The next three weeks are the most important in the club's history. The prize has never been greater. All of us know what has to be done, but can it be?