WE CAN make no excuses whatsoever about Saturday's performance against Bristol Rovers. We were very poor both individually and collectively and I will not accept another display like that again.

The early goals that we conceded gave us a mountain to climb; our visitors played with a lot of confidence and we didn't and that was reflected in the final scoreline.

The only good thing is that we have an immediate opportunity to bounce back this evening. The players have the chance to make amends and prove that it was a one-off performance.

We find ourselves up against a Brighton & Hove Albion side who will be buoyed by their comprehensive victory over YeovilTown on Saturday. They will be looking to claw themselves away from danger towards the bottom of the table and in the process show recently-installed manager, Russell Slade what they can do.

As such it will be another difficult test for us tonight, but I will be looking for a positive response from my players and will learn a lot about their character and resolve.

I spent four happy years at Brighton as a player, making over 150 appearances, and after tonight, I wish them well for the remainder of the season.

Thank you for your support this evening. The players and I appreciate your backing.

CHRIS HUTCHINGS