Beaten by a quality side TOWN boss Peter Smith says he told his side not to be downhearted by Saturday’s defeat, pointing out that the Hyde side contained six former full professionals, including John O’Kane and Stephen Clegg who had both played in the Manchester United first team defence.

“They were a class act, a Conference League side, not UniBond First Division,” said Smith.

“In the second half they controlled the ball and didn’t give us a look in,” he added.

Despite Hyde’s quality, Town had several good chances in the first half.

“Whittaker went close just before the break and we had a couple of penalty chances denied,” said Smith.

“What people don’t realise is that those players will be there because Hyde are paying them good salaries.

“We are just a small club and all we can do is bring on young players and get them to compete at that level.

“Tomorrow’s game at Bridlington will be different entirely. They do not have the same quality, but they will be a typically big, physical, North Eastern side.” Apart from James Sheppard, who is still injured, and Damien Corcoran, who is unavailable, Smith has his full squad to choose from as Town bid for points to move them clear of the cluster of teams at the foot of the league table.