JOINT-manager Mark Owen admits his players’ confidence levels hit “rock bottom” after suffering a 3-1 defeat at leaders NKF Burbage.

Droitwich were stripped of the Midland League Division Two title last season after being deducted three points for fielding an ineligible player.

But after 10 games Owen conceded Spa’s promotion hopes were already fading as they sit in 12 position, 21 points behind Burbage.

“After what happened last season it’s been a tough start for us and at our level putting the same team out week in week out is difficult,” he said.

“Fortunately we are still in three cups which is a positive and we have got three games in hand to get back in the mix.

“But the league is a long shot now.

“Looking at Burbage they are a strong side and I can’t see them slipping up much.”

After losing 4-3 to fourth-placed Smithswood Firs last week, Droitwich were hoping to bounce back.

But they were quickly put under pressure by Burbage, with Matt Oliver pulling off a trio of saves before Jake Brown opened the scoring.

Second-half goals from Alex Coultas and Jack Whitehurst increased the Leicestershire side’s lead before Nick Seabourne drilled home a consolation.

Owen admitted the defeat was difficult for Spa to take, but has urged his troop to pick themselves as they prepare to host Evesham United Under 21s in the Worcestershire Junior Cup on Saturday (2pm).

“The week before I thought we should have got something out of the game,” Owen said.

“But this Saturday I thought we came up short.

“I wouldn’t say it was down to natural ability because I think we are as good as any side, but at the moment we are just not working as hard as the opposition.

“They outbattled, outmuscled and were worthy winners.

“The dressing room was really down - it was as if we had finally hit rock bottom to be brutally honest as the lads were disappointed in themselves.

“But it’s up to them to put it right. I trust the squad of players I have got.

“They have just got to forget about the last few months, put it to bed and get back to playing the way we can.”