NEW Church Stretton boss Paul Smith says he is finding it difficult to motivate the players after stepping up from the youth team.

After finishing second in the Mercian League Premier Division last season, Stretton targeted immediate promotion this time round.

But three defeats from four games – including a 2-0 home reverse against Shifnal – on Saturday has seen the team languishing towards the wrong end of the table.

"I ran a youth team for 10 years but the team had to fold this year," said Smith.

"It wasn't difficult to motivate them because they are keen, but it can be difficult to motivate adults.

"It is a learning curve, but I am enjoying it.

"I am quite a busy manager in that I gown down early to set up and the lads do react to what you say.

"I am also a player, but am currently out injured, so it is frustrating when you see them play badly because you know their capabilities."

Smith said that last Saturday's game was the worst the team have played all season.

"We never started at all," said Smith.

"They came with a plan and they just dominated us.

"They were in our faces and played with a high tempo."

Stretton travel to top-of-the-table Telford Juniors this Saturday – a game that Smith acknowledges will be very tough.

"They have scored 17 goals in four games, so it will be a very tough game," said Smith.

"They also play 4-1-4 and will be a stern test.

"Only Adam Stellman played particularly well, so no one can complain if I make some changes this Saturday."