We still believe, says Holleran ahead of Christmas period

Leamington boss Paul Holleran says there is no lack of belief from his squad, despite it now being 11 weeks since they last enjoyed a league victory.
Striker Stefan Moore has left Leamington to link up with Solihull Moors.Striker Stefan Moore has left Leamington to link up with Solihull Moors.
Striker Stefan Moore has left Leamington to link up with Solihull Moors.

Tuesday’s night’s 3-1 defeat at AFC Fylde left Brakes languishing in 18th place in the Conference North table, just two points clear of the relegation zone.

However, ahead of tomorrow’s trip to Guiseley, Holleran remains convinced his side will not get sucked into a relegation battle.

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“We have shown we can compete at Barrow, we competed at Fylde and we’ll do the same at Guiseley,” said Holleran.

“We’re not playing like a struggling side and as long as we maintain the same levels as Tuesday night we’ll soon start turning these narrow defeats into draws and wins.”

The application shown in midweek was in stark contrast to the first-half display at Brackley last Saturday, a match which marked the end of Stefan Moore’s second spell at the club.

And Holleran said he had been quick to remind the players of their responsibilites following the St James Park defeat.

“A lot of people spend a lot of money to follow this club.

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“They can put up with losing but they can’t accept it if we don’t give 100 per cent.

“They were in great voice again on Tuesday and were very supportive of the team and myself and we really appreciate it.”

Moore’s move to Solihull Moors was compounded by a hamstring injury for Lee Chilton on Tuesday night and Holleran admitted he had already received a couple of knockbacks in his attempts to bolster his attacking options.

But despite the loss of Moore leaving Brakes short up front, Holleran said his departure was best for both parties.

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“Stefan will still go down as a good signing and we’re bitterly disappointed the way it has ended.

“But we need everyone to be committed to what we are trying to do.”

Defender StuartPierpoint has also left the New Windmill following the arrival of Delroy Gordon.

Unfortunately it has not quite worked out for Stuart,” said Holleran.