Baffins Milton Rovers aiming to ‘punch’ their way back to form after dismal losing run

During the week manager Shaun Wilkinson tried something different to turn things around - he got his players to 'punch' each other!

'We are on a bit of a dodgy run,' he said.

'Our squad is very young and the players are technically very good.

'At the moment, though, they are being outfought and outworked so I took them all down to Bally's Gym in Rodney Road to do some boxing.

'It is something I discovered after I finished playing and wished I'd found it earlier.

'The fitness levels, discipline and respect required in boxing can also apply on the football field.

'It is about getting their hunger, grit and determination back.’

Baffins have lost their last four Wessex Premier games - including a pair of 4-0 losses to high-flying Hamworthy - while they have also been knocked out of the FA Vase and Wessex League Cup.

'During this time we have not been outplayed or outclassed, but have suffered because of individual errors,’ Wilkinson continued.

'It is vital that we get back to what we are good at.

'There is no reason to panic because the chairman (Steve Cripps) and I have a two-year plan to move up.

'The key thing for us at the moment is consistency and this season is all about seeing what players come along.'

Baffins are without key midfielder James Cowan, who starts a three-match suspension after being sent off at Hamworthy last weekend.

Wilkinson is also hoping to sign a new striker.

'One thing we have been missing is a target man,' he said.

'If the ball doesn't stick up front and keeps coming back at you then it is harder to defend.

'Defending is something you need to do as a team.

'I honestly believe we are only one or two players away from being a very good side.

'It is all about finding the right balance and the missing links.

'We must look to put more points on the board in our next three games.'

After Tadley’s visit, Baffins visit lofty Fareham next Tuesday followed by a home game with Bournemouth Poppies on October