ROVERS crashed out of the FA Cup at the first hurdle on Friday night, despite taking a two goal lead.

Being drawn away to League Two leaders Notts County looked a tricky tie but it was still disappointing to be beaten by a side a level below us.

Clarke selected what looked like a strong team and we got off to a great start, gaining a two goal advantage following strikes by Sercombe in the eighth minute and Sinclair just four minutes later.

We appeared to be in control at that stage but two goals from the Magpies in quick succession around the half-hour mark brought them back into the game.

The players struggled from then on and lacked the necessary character and determination to at least secure a replay.

Stead gave County the lead in the 58th minute and we never looked likely to get back on level terms from that point.

Another goal in injury time was the final hammer blow as Rovers’ erratic form this season continued.

Some of our home form has been excellent, with players excelling in all positions and making us look like a quality side.

But other performances, especially away from home, have been dismal and it must be frustrating for Clarke to see the same players put in contrasting displays from one week to the next.

Defensively, we have certainly not been anything like as strong as last season, as Lockyer’s form has been inconsistent like the rest of the team and Sweeney has looked a shadow of the lynchpin he proved to be last year.

Broadbent looks a great prospect and is improving with every game but he needs the others to step up and cut out the individual errors.

Clarke was understandably upset after the game, calling his players ‘weak and bullied’ and promised big changes.

However, we do not have sufficient quality in the squad to make wholesale changes and it remains to be seen whether the owners will back him in the January transfer window to bring in the reinforcements needed.

A big improvement is needed on Saturday as the Pirates face another tough test as they travel to fifth-placed Scunthorpe.