It is hard to put into words the disappointment I have felt since Saturday's defeat in the FA Cup to Crowborough Athletic.

I am usually philosophical about such things – it is after all 'only a game of football' – but I have to admit this defeat has hit me harder than almost any other I have experienced as a manager, coach or player.

As a player there is always the next game but for a manager or coach, a result like Saturday's when there was so much at stake for the club, stays with you long after the final whistle has blown.

It was a game we dominated for long periods and deserved to win but a mixture of ineffective play in the attacking third of the pitch, a moment of poor concentration in our own box and some bad luck, ultimately cost us the game.

Once again some puzzling inconsistencies by the officials did not help our cause, but we have only ourselves to blame for failing to convert good possession into goals.

I have been patient with some of the players and believe in their qualities but they need to deliver in our next few games or I may be forced to consider reshaping the squad.

A plus point from an otherwise hugely disappointing weekend was the return of James Gray who scored a hat-trick for the reserves on Saturday against Northwood.

He may come into contention on Saturday when we host Ryman League side Chipstead in the FA Trophy.

In the meantime we need to work hard to rediscover some of the form that has seen us lose only three times in 17 competitive matches this season.

A win on Saturday and I am sure the world will seem a brighter place – such is the power of football to make or break our mood! We shall see!

Best wishes to all – Sean Downey, Leighton Town manager.