Neal Ardley admitted too many of his Notts County players “weren’t quite at it” as they slipped to a 2-0 defeat at Hartlepool.
Two goals from Nicky Featherstone in the second half condemned the Magpies to defeat in what was a below par performance at Victoria Park.
Notts, who dropped to seventh in the National League table, created little in difficult conditions, but they still remain in the playoff positions and have a game in hand to come on Tuesday at Fylde.
Reflecting on what was a tough afternoon, Magpies boss Ardley conceded they fell below the standards they have set themselves this season.
“We’re disappointed,” he said.
“The fans who travelled up on a cold, wet, day didn’t get what they have been used to getting which is a team that creates chances even if we don’t win.
“Normally, we have something about us.
“But this defeat probably ranks up there with the Aldershot one where we never really got going.
“There’s good players in the team, but too many weren’t quite at it, and too many didn’t have the zip they normally do.
“It was a bad day at the office.”
