MANAGER Michael Cuffie called on Christchurch to bounce back from Saturday’s seven-goal mauling at Alresford – despite taking the rap for his side’s “casual” approach.

The boss admitted Priory “were not at the races” and “could not keep up” as Town smashed home five goals without reply during the first half at Arlesbury Park.

However, Cuffie took heart from his side’s second-half showing and tasked the Hurn Bridge outfit with building on that when they host Fareham Town tonight (7.45).

Cuffie told the Daily Echo: “The game was over at half-time and to be honest it could have been more. They were too good for us.

“I have to take a lot of responsibility because we were a bit too casual and I played the wrong system.

“We had done so well against Brockenhurst after such a long break that we relaxed our approach too much.

“But what I did like was the way the lads did not drop their heads.

“The second-half performance was much better and, luckily, we have a chance to put it right straight away.”

Meanwhile, Cuffie confirmed he has served Hamworthy United with a seven-day approach for defender Tom Biles.

Elsewhere in the Wessex Premier, Bournemouth Poppies travel to Newport (IOW) (7.45).

Meanwhile, on-loan Poole Town striker Warren Byerley has agreed to remain with Conference South club Dorchester Town for a second month.