JOHN Brough criticised the attitude of some of his North Leigh squad after their surprise 3-1 defeat to Evo-Stik Southern League Division 1 South & West strugglers Barnstaple Town on Saturday, writes MATTHEW BRUCE.

A lacklustre Millers were beaten for the first time in 2017 and Brough admitted his frustration at the way his side’s unbeaten run was ended.

He said: “Nine games is a good run, but I’m disappointed in the manner in which we lost that game of football.

“A lot of it was down to mindset, travelling a long way to face a side below us in the table.

“Our experienced players just didn’t turn up.

“I can’t fault the effort of some of our younger lads, but I expect more from my senior players.”

There was also a debut for 17-year-old midfielder Malachi Napa, who was brought off the bench in the closing stages and impressed the Millers boss.

“He came on and did really well,” said Brough.

“He’s got good ability and really quick feet and I was really impressed with his workrate and determination.

“I wish a few of our senior players had done the same.”

The defeat leaves Millers 11 points adrift of the play-off positions.

But Brough believes his side, who have three games in hand on many of the sides above them, can still crash the party.

“We’re still well in the mix,” he said.