CINDERFORD Town boss Paul Michael has shouldered the blame for what he called ’undoubtedly one of the worst’ performances of his tenure.

Town suffered a 3-2 loss against Cirencester Town at the end of last month in the Southern League Division One South & West.

And in his programme notes ahead of the Foresters’ clash with Winchester City tomorrow (3pm KO), Michael spoke frankly of his side’s latest defeat.

“It seems like an eternity since our last game against Cirencester partly due to the [FA] Trophy weekend but mostly due to the nature of the performance.

“That performance against Cirencester was undoubtedly one of the worst I have overseen.

“We were so open defensively and allowed Cirencester to create far too many chances too easily.

“I take full responsibility for that performance as I made changes tactically and in personnel that didn’t work on the night and hopefully we have all learned lessons from that game within the group, I know I have.

“I’m really looking forward to seeing the reaction of the players as they’ve had to wait for this opportunity to put things right.”

Winchester were involved in an eye-opening 5-4 loss to Salisbury having led 3-0 and 4-3 and Michael says his team needs to be wary of their visitors.

“If we needed any reminding of our opposition’s attacking prowess then that was certainly it,” he added.

“We will need to be much better defensively in this one than last time out.”

Isaac Kelly is back available for Town after suffering from a concussion and the only two absentees are Lewis Ellis and Callum McOnie, who are on the long-term injury list.