SLOUGH head coach Darran Brown has challenged his players to step up and prove themselves after a 30-7 defeat at Risborough on Saturday.

Conditions in Buckinghamshire did not suit the Greenies as they suffered a fourth defeat in the Berks, Bucks & Oxon Premier this season.

And despite being in the midst of an injury crisis, Brown knows his team must raise their game in order to start climbing the table.

He told the Observer: “Individual performances were ok but as a team we weren’t in the game. We have played better.

“We were too individual at times with people trying to take the game on themselves, so our decision-making can improve.

“We made wrong decisions as the game went on and found ourselves in trouble. You’ve got to create more opportunities and on reflection we didn’t take advantage of those that we did.

“Conditions weren’t great for either side but that perhaps helped Risborough a little more because they play a little tighter.

“We didn’t adapt very well, and to the small pitch on a school site. Conditions didn’t help the way we like to play but you’ve got to adapt to that.

“But the score isn’t a true reflection and I think the game was a lot closer. It was a good contest but the score was a little flattering for them.”

Commenting on the growing injury list, Brown explained: “We’ve got pretty much a whole side out and are looking to move people around.

“The injuries have an impact both positive and negative. The negative being they take out very good and experienced players, which you need. There have been changes to the back row, numbers six to eight.

“The backline is settling but Max Miles and Sean Street are out for a few weeks at least. That has had a direct impact because you’re taking finishers and playmakers out of the side. They’re people you miss around the changing room if nothing else.

“We’ve got the numbers but the quality isn’t quite there. The positive is it gives others the chance to show their hand and players have to step up.”

Slough make the trip to Wheatley this Saturday (2.15pm) and Brown is desperate to address the two defeats his side suffered last season.

He commented: “We played them twice last year and they’re a tough side at their own place. The pitch is in the middle of nowhere and used by a local school as well.

“We went to their place last year and there was a little bit of controversy towards the end, so we’ve got to address that when we’re not at full strength.

“The win is paramount for us and we will be aiming for that ahead of a week off, and if we can pick up the bonus point as well then fantastic.”