Lee Clark admitted Blyth Spartans lacked the cutting edge against Boston United on Saturday, while revealing Scott Wilson’s injury looks a bad one.
Spartans slipped to a 1-0 defeat at home to the Pilgrims after a Jay Rollins’ goal proved the difference in the second-half.
Clark feels his side defended well throughout the game but called for more to be delivered in the final third of the pitch.
He said: “We battled well and worked hard but lacked a bit of pace. We did ok in the middle of the pitch but not further up.
“Our difficulty was in the final third and there were times when we were in positions to have a shot at goal but we chose to pass the ball instead.
“We lacked self-belief and confidence in that respect and I need to get that built up.
“We need that extra bit of bravery when we attack and if we get caught on the break then I will take responsibility.
“I have to say the fans were brilliant; as they have been every game. No doubt about that. The players and management really appreciate them.”
Clark takes his side to promotion-chasing Chester on Saturday with Blyth three points from National League North safety.
And the former Birmingham manager, briefly previewing the game, brought potentially bad news on the injury front for Wilson, on loan from Burnley.
He added: “It will be a very tricky game for us as they are one of the outstanding teams in the league but we were very good against them in the match at Croft Park.
“Clearly, we need to defend well and be better up-front also. But, with no fixtures, we have a full week to work on the game.
“It looks like we will be missing Scott Wilson though who had to go off early on against Boston.
“We will hear from Burnley’s medical team during the week with an update as he is back with his club on weekdays but it looks like his hamstring injury could be long-term.”