BAFFLED Redditch United boss Paul Smith described his side's dismal 3-1 defeat to St Neots Town in the Evo Stik Southern League Central Premier as a complete horror show.

Smith admitted: "I just didn't see it coming. It was a real abject display and a missed opportunity to pick up three more points.

"I've been quick enough to praise the lads when they've done well - but this was a real disappointment."

Reds appeared to be on course for another victory when Richard Batchelor fired them into an early lead against St Neots.

It should have been 2-0 soon after as Dave Reynolds rammed a half volley against the woodwork in what Smith described as 'the best move of the game'.

But from that point, St Neots took charge and Smith said: "We just took our eye off the ball and were second best all over the park.

"There were no excuses. No-one played well.

"We've been on a real good run of form lately and I just can't put my finger on what went wrong.

"No disrespect to St Neots, but they were there for the taking.

"All we can do is to put a line under it and move on.

"But the players were left on no uncertain terms how I felt about it, because it simply wasn't good enough.

"However, I don't like to go overboard with victory or defeat. I'm just hoping this performance was a one-off and that we knuckle down in training this week and get back to where we were."

Reds have little time to dwell on their defeat as they entertain long distance travellers Royston Town from Hertfordshire this Saturday.

But Reds must then prepare for a lengthy trip of their own when they visit Needham Market in Suffolk next Tuesday night.

Smith added: "It's an horrific trip to have to make on a Tuesday night. We will have to leave at 1pm and it's likely we won't get back until around 3am."

At least Smith will be able to select from a position of strength with Ahmed Ali, Jamie Ashmore and recent recruit George Washbourne all available but Lewis Wright remains sidelined with a calf injury.