Wisbech boss says Stamford defeat was 'worst 45 minutes' in his time at the club

Wisbech Town manager Brett Whaley is demanding a huge reaction from his players against Spalding United this weekend after a dismal first half showing saw them thrashed 5-0 at Stamford on Saturday.

The Fenmen conceded all five goals before the break against the Daniels and, although they were more competitive in the second half, the game was already lost by half time.

“It was the worst 45 minutes in the year and a half I have been at the club,” said Whaley.

“After some encouraging recent performances it was as if the players thought they were further down the road than they were.

“But, at this level, hard work and the right mentality is required every minute of every game.

“Stamford wanted it more than us, ran more than us and won nearly every 50/50 ball.

“It was embarrassing. We kicked off and they had about 11 shots on goal before we got possession again.

“We were mauled and as a group we really let the football club down. The fans who travelled to support us looked stunned.

“We are not playing kids’ football so we can’t say we drew the second half. We were so far off the level we need to be at.

“We will train twice this week and the players will watch the recording of the match, which will be worse than playing in it... but they need to see it.

“People have bad days but on Saturday they all had a bad day. If that happens again next Saturday then it is down to mentality.

“I will change the team against Spalding but I don’t want to rip up the squad. If that mentality isn’t right, though, I will have to make changes.”

On a more encouraging note, Wisbech have signed 19-year-old striker Brody Warren from March Town.

On the teenager, Whaley said: “I really liked him when I was manager at March. He came into the squad and actually improved the intensity of training as he was flying about the place.

“He proved himself at youth level, at Step 6 and Step 5 and I have no doubt he has the talent and mentality to impress at Step 4.

“He is one of the most talented young players in the area.”

The club is offering servicemen and veterans free entry to the match against Spalding - and free hot drinks - to tie in with Remembrance.