Borough aim to solve defensive problems against Weston

Eleven goals in the against column during the last three games has stalled Eastbourne Borough's rise up the table and given boss Tommy Widdrington much to ponder.
Jamie Taylor has helped add goals but defensive errors have hindered BoroughJamie Taylor has helped add goals but defensive errors have hindered Borough
Jamie Taylor has helped add goals but defensive errors have hindered Borough

A 3-1 away defeat at Gosport Borough last week was swiftly followed by a painful 4-1 loss at Concord Rangers. Widdrington’s men responded with four goals of their own at Hayes and Yeading on Tuesday night but once again, goals leaked through an increasingly fragile defence. In the end they were grateful to a last gasp strike from Ian Simpemba to record a 4-4 draw.

It all amounted to a frustrating week as Borough remain in 14th position.

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“We have scored six away goals in the last few games and only have one point to show for it,” Widdrington said. “Obviously that’s frustrating and it shows we have work to do. I’m not making excuses but since Adam Watts was forced to leave we have been a bit light at the back. Some of these lads have played a lot of games and at times it has shown. But it has been a steep learning curve for some of the players and it’s something they have to get used to.

“Every game, week in and week out, they are going to be tested. Teams are going to be in their faces every week and they have to stand up to that.”

With Nat Pinney, who has 16 goals to his name this season, and Jamie Taylor, Borough carry an increased goal threat, Widdrington admits he now has to find the right balance in defence.

“I have always said it is not about any one individual or even the back four. The team has to defend from one to 11. Scoring is a team responsibilty and it’s the same at the other end. I don’t care who gets the goals and I don’t care who stops them.”

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Weston Super-Mare, who are 17th in the league standings, visit Priory Lane on Saturday. Borough beat the west country outfit 2-1 at The Woodspring Stadium way back in August and the Borough faithful will be hoping for a double.

Weston were also among the goals in midweek as they won 5-2 against Oxford City on Tuesday.

“With all the goals flying in you can bet you life it will 0-0,” quipped Widdrington.

Darren Lok misses the game through suspension.