EVESHAM United boss Paul Collicutt remained tight lipped on the nature of an impromptu meeting with chairman Jim Cockerton and vice-chair Dave Wright after Sunday’s 2-1 defeat to Thatcham.

The trio had a behind-closed-doors chat in the wake of a fourth straight home defeat for the Robins in all competitions.

It presents Evesham with the paradox of disquiet behind the scenes despite sitting third in Southern League Division One South and two points off the summit, although they have exited all four cup competitions.

Asked about the meeting, Collicutt replied: “I don’t want to say a great deal about that, it was private and I would rather it stay between the three of us.

“They voiced their opinions and who in their right mind is going to be happy after four home defeats on the bounce? I am not, they are not and the supporters are not.

“It was fully expected. To have won five on the bounce in the league then have this run is criminal and that’s the disappointing thing.”

Collicutt endured a tough summer with leading lights Adam Mann and Mat Liddiard furthering their careers two levels above in a high turnover of personnel.

But while the under-fire manager feels expectations have become inflated at the Jubilee Stadium, he made no excuses for the current run.

“Even after this result we stayed third. Unfortunately that’s not good enough for some people,” he added.

“My record speaks for itself, we have been in the play-offs for three of the past four years without quite finding that little bit to get over the line.

"The expectation of an Evesham supporter is greater now than it was when I came in and I suppose I have shot myself in the foot.

“The harsh reality is that my budget is now £100 per week more than when I first came in.

“In fairness to the board, they try to help me as much as they can but you rely on so many things like sponsorship and crowds.

“The board is supportive but want success just as much as I do. I just wish I could get my players to want it as much, that’s the frustrating thing.

“We need a big turnaround in performances and to win games, perhaps draw one or two. Sunday’s was a game we should have got something out of. We’re our own worst enemies.”