Tired Rams '˜lacked desire' against Aylesbury

The relegation battling visitors boosted their chances of survival with a well-deserved win over their hosts.

Rams manager Ian Saunders felt his team were starting to feel the effects of lots of recent games.

‘This had a real end-of-season feel to it from our perspective,’ said Saunders.

‘The lads have played a lot of games lately and some tiredness has started to creep in.

‘Aylesbury wanted it more than we did and showed a lot more desire.

‘They fully deserved their win and we got what we deserved which was nothing.’

The visitors took a 21st-minute lead.

Sonny French found space on the right and though Rams goalkeeper Luke Eaton managed to block his shot the ball spun into the net.

Andy Todd sent a shot against the top of the crossbar for the hosts.

Any hopes that things would improve for the Rams were dashed in the opening 10 seconds of the second period.

Spotting Eaton off his line, French sent his shot from half-way over the back-pedalling goalkeeper and into the net.

With 15 minutes remaining the visitors were reduced to 10 men when Chris Crook pulled Todd back to pick up his second yellow card.

Despite their numerical supremacy the Rams were unable to make it count.

Two chances fell to Howard Neighbour but both were saved.

‘We didn’t pass the ball well enough, didn’t work hard enough and were not ruthless enough in taking our chances,’ said Saunders.

‘It has been a long season and it is difficult to maintain the motivation.

‘We have four games to go and I will be looking for a reaction from the players at home against Godalming Town on Wednesday.’