Ashford Rugby Club coach Lloyd Stokes has spelled out a few home truths to his new charges.

He is urging them to stand up and be counted and improve their on-field discipline in the wake of the 24-7 reverse at Thanet Wanderers on Saturday – the side’s eighth successive defeat in London 2 South East.

They conceded seven penalties in the first five minutes and had two players yellow carded in the opening 20 minutes.

Stokes, who has taken over first team duties following the departure of Gregor Dougall last month, said: “It’s impossible in this league to win when we continue to start games in such a ridiculous fashion.

"Too many times this season we have found ourselves behind, on the wrong side of the referee and reduced to 14 players.”

He added: “At some point, this young team have to accept some responsibility and acknowledge that their poor decision making and lack of maturity is the main thing that is hampering their progress, not their inability to play rugby.”

Ashford have a day off this weekend, before hosting winless Aylesford Bulls – the only team below them in the table – on Saturday week.

Stokes added: “We need the whole squad at training, to be ready to deliver the huge performance I know we are capable of.”