Jim Chapman's view: East Stirling v Dumbarton

Nov 21 2008 by Andy Galloway, Lennox Herald (main ed)

WE were very puzzled with the Dumbarton team which was on show on Saturday against East Stirling.

We know we fell well below the standards we have set and have only ourselves to blame. East Stirling deserve credit for how they went about their business but we have to be disappointed in our own display.

The players have been told in no uncertain manner that they have to reach the standards they have previously set in every game, and did not do that on Saturday.

We have been quick to receive the plaudits when we have played well so are deserving of criticism for this game.

It is only one bad performance so we are not going to get too downbeat about it. However, we have to work hard to maintain our standards and the players are very disappointed in themselves and the performance.

We know that is just a pale shadow of what we can produce and we have no God-given right to win any game. It is a real hard lesson to be learned and we will be right back to basics at training this week.

One good performance does not mean we have arrived, but one bad performance does not make us a bad side. We have a chance to make amends and I have trust and faith in my players to do so.

I am not fooled by the two goals we scored. It was a very difficult afternoon for everybody and I fully expect it was for the fans as well.

The players now have to stand up and reach the required standards again.