Fareham need to learn lesson and avoid 'stupid' result against Cowes Sports

The Reds recently beat the Yachtsmen 4-1 on the Isle of Wight, but the manager insists that counts for nothing.

‘Our track record against the teams lower down in the league isn't great,’ said Stiles.

‘Although we have beaten the top sides, we have a habit of slipping up against the lesser teams.

‘It is a habit that we have to get out of.

‘For us, it could be the difference between having a reasonable season and an average one.

‘It is down to us to be mentally prepared and on our game.

‘If we are to get anywhere we have to find greater consistency.

‘We beat top of the league Alresford last weekend and then lost to Division One side Alton in the cup.

‘These stupid results have to stop.’

Although there are doubts over the fitness of top scorer Josh Benfield and Luke Slade, Stiles is optimistic both will be fit.

Cowes produced an early-season shock, winning 2-1 at Portchester, but have lost eight of their last 11 away games in the league.

They did, though, end a run of 10 successive home defeats in all competitions in midweek by coming from 0-2 down to draw 2-2 with Baffins.