ANDY Preece has told Worcester City's supporters -- don't blame the players, blame me.

A handful of fans voiced their disapproval in the direction of Preece and his team following Worcester's 1-0 loss to Hucknall Town on Saturday.

The defeat at St George's Lane was the club's fourth in a desperately poor start to the Nationwide North campaign.

After seven games, City are already nine points short of the play-off zone, which was viewed by player-manager Preece before the start of their season as the club's objective.

The former Bury boss admits he heard moans of discontent among a section of support -- and understands their concern.

"One or two fans are getting disgruntled," said Preece. "But as long as they aim that at me and lay off the team, then that is fair enough.

"I thought the fans were good when we came off. I've been here before when it's been a lot worse. But one or two started things and they have got a right to do so. They expect us to be doing a lot better than what we are.

"I'm not feeling any pressure because I know we are doing things right. But I know, ultimately, we will get it right."