COLNEY Heath boss Scott Lacey rated last Saturday’s 2-0 defeat at home to Stotfold amongst the top three worst performances in his time as manager.

COLNEY Heath boss Scott Lacey rated last Saturday’s 2-0 defeat at home to Stotfold amongst the top three worst performances in his time as manager.

A brace from Paul Garrett condemned Heath to defeat and left manager Lacey extremely unhappy with his players’ performances.

“We started slack and it was probably in the top three worst performances since I’ve been manager,” the Heath boss told the Herts Advertiser.

“They looked strong, but there’s no excuses for Saturday. I’m not taking responsibility for it, there’s nothing we (Lacey and joint-boss Wes Awad) did wrong, the players weren’t good enough and sometimes they’ve got to take the responsibility.”

The Magpies responded to Saturday’s defeat in positive fashion putting four past Kentish Town on Tuesday night in a 4-2 win. Carl Ashton netted a free kick to get Heath on their way and a Kevin Ashwood brace helped them take control. Ian Cooper wrapped up proceedings with a fourth from the penalty spot.

“We drew a line under it and told the players to go out their and enjoy it and it seemed to work,” explained Lacey.

“We dominated the second half and it was a good performance and a good win.

“That’s the level we need to play at every week. That’s the bare minimum. It was nice to win comfortably and at only 75 per cent of our capabilities but against the better teams we’ll have to raise our game.”

The Magpies turn their attentions to the FA Cup this weekend when FC Clacton are the visitors to the Recreation Ground and Lacey says his side go into the game as slight underdogs.

“They’re a strong side,” he said. “The Essex Senior League is stronger than the South Midlands league despite it being the same level. They’re a good strong, well organised side and they are well supported too.

“We’ve got a home draw in the FA Cup and that’s a bonus and we’ve got to use that positivity to our advantage.”