Yems: We're not finished yet - if we stay up we have done well

The manager remained positive after Crawley narrowly fell to a 1-0 defeat to Stevenage through a late strike from super-sub Elliot Osbourne. It was Crawley’s second consecutive home defeat as the Reds continued their winless run after the impressive victory over Leeds United in the FA Cup.

“The way we’re playing I’m gutted as anyone,” Yems explained. “They’ve [Stevenage] have come here with a game plan and got the luck they needed. I thought we were in the game.

“You can’t blame the boys for their effort.. we need someone to put the ball in the back of the net."

Such a sentiment has been a feature of Crawley’s performances since the departure of Max Watters, who scored 16 goals in 19 games, before joining Cardiff City, in January.

“Losing a striker that scores you goals, you're going to struggle”, Yems stated. “I’m not making excuses but you can’t lose a fella like that...it would affect any team. It’s the same side that beat Leeds. We’ve not become a bad side overnight.

“If we stay up and survive we have done well. We’re far from finished - trust me."

Late in the match, Crawley Town failed to convert a golden chance to equalise as Tom Nichols’ penalty was well saved. It was the second time Nichols has missed from the penalty spot in three games, but Yems’ faith remains in his striker.

“It’s his job, he’s brave enough, he is the penalty taker and still will be," said Yems.

Next up, the Reds host an out-of-form Colchester United on Saturday at 3pm.